Government of Nepal Ministry of Physical Planning and ...documents.worldbank.org/curated/en/... ·...

Government of Nepal Ministry of Physical Planning and Works

Department of Roads

ROAD SECTOR DEVELOPMENT PROJECT (New Project Preparation and Supervision Services)

(IDA GRANT NO: H339 – NEP)

REVIEW AND UPDATE OF INITIAL ENVIRONMENTAL EXAMINATION

STUDY REPORT FOR UPGRADING OF

SHITALPATI TO MUSIKOT (Chainage: km 52+650 – km 138+500)

MMM Group Ltd. (Canada) in JV with

SAI Consulting Engineers (P) Ltd. (India) in association with

ITECO Nepal (P) Ltd. (Nepal) & Total Management Services (Nepal)

August 2010

DRAFT

Pub

lic D

iscl

osur

e A

utho

rized

Pub

lic D

iscl

osur

e A

utho

rized

Pub

lic D

iscl

osur

e A

utho

rized

Pub

lic D

iscl

osur

e A

utho

rized

Pub

lic D

iscl

osur

e A

utho

rized

Pub

lic D

iscl

osur

e A

utho

rized

Pub

lic D

iscl

osur

e A

utho

rized

Pub

lic D

iscl

osur

e A

utho

rized

wb370910

Typewritten Text

E2567 v. 13

wb370910

Typewritten Text

wb370910

Typewritten Text

wb370910

Typewritten Text

Review and Update of IEE Study Report August 2010 Sitalpati To Musikot Road

Road Sector Development Project, (IDA Grant No: H339-NEP) New Project Preparation & Supervision Page ii

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1 NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE INSTITUTION PREPARING THE REPORT ... 1

1.1 Proponent and Address ....................................................................................... 1

1.1.1 Name of Proposal ................................................................................................... 1 1.1.2 Proponent and Address .......................................................................................... 1 1.1.3 Consultant ............................................................................................................... 1

2 SUMMARY OF THE PROPOSAL ....................................................................... 2

2.1 Objective of the Proposal ..................................................................................... 2

2.2 Anticipated Impacts by the Proposed Project ....................................................... 2

2.2.1 Impact on Land Use ................................................................................................ 2 2.2.2 Impact on the Environment, Impact on Human Life, and Population Pressure ...... 2

3 DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSAL ................................................................. 4

3.1 Type of Proposal ................................................................................................. 4

3.1.1 Salient Features ...................................................................................................... 4 3.1.2 Type of Goods to be Delivered ............................................................................... 4 3.1.3 Proposal‟s Capacity ................................................................................................ 6 3.1.4 Materials to be used ............................................................................................... 6 3.1.5 Energy to be used ................................................................................................... 7 3.1.6 Details on the Technology ...................................................................................... 7 3.1.7 Manpower Requirement ......................................................................................... 7 3.1.8 Resources Required for the Implementation of the Proposal ................................. 7

3.2 Detailed Particulars of the Area where the Project is to be implemented ............. 7

3.2.1 Physical Environment ............................................................................................. 7 3.2.2 Biological Environment ......................................................................................... 12 3.2.3 Social, Socio-Economic and Cultural Environment .............................................. 14

4 IMPACT OF THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PROPOSAL ON THE

ENVIRONMENT ................................................................................................ 18

4.1.1 Construction Stage ............................................................................................... 18 4.1.2 Operation Stage .................................................................................................... 19

4.2 Adverse Impacts ................................................................................................ 20

4.2.1 Construction Stage ............................................................................................... 20 4.2.2. Operation Stage ...................................................................................................... 24

4.3 Respect to Initial Environmental Examination .................................................... 27

4.3.1 Practicing Environmental Management Plan Pro-forma prior to Undertaking Proposed Road Upgrading................................................................................ 28

4.3.2 Practicing and Sticking to Agreements Pro-forma related to Environmental Management Plan Pro-forma ............................................................................ 28

5 ALTERNATIVE ANALYSIS ............................................................................... 29

5.1 Design and Construction Approach ................................................................... 29

5.2 Project Site (Route) ........................................................................................... 29

5.3 Time Schedule ................................................................................................... 29

5.4 Raw Materials (Resources) to be used .............................................................. 29

5.5 Other (No Action Option) ................................................................................... 29

5.5.1 Proposal Alternatives for Transportation .............................................................. 30


Road Sector Development Project, (IDA Grant No: H339-NEP) New Project Preparation & Supervision Page iii

6 MEASURES TO REDUCE OR CONTROL THE IMPACT OF THE

IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PROJECT ON THE ENVIRONMENT

(MITIGATION MEASURES) .............................................................................. 31

6.1 Mitigation Measures During Design Phase ........................................................ 31

6.1.1 Route Selection..................................................................................................... 31 6.1.2 Detailed Survey and Design ................................................................................. 31 6.1.3 Land and Property Acquisition and Compensation .............................................. 31

6.2 Mitigation Measures During Construction Phase ............................................... 32

6.2.1 Benefit Augmentation Measures........................................................................... 32 6.2.2 Adverse Impacts Mitigation Measures .................................................................. 33

7 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT ROLES & RESPONSIBILITY ................. 44

7.1 Site Supervision, Monitoring and reporting ........................................................ 45

7.2 Pre-Construction Phase Monitoring ................................................................... 46

7.3 Construction Phase Monitoring .......................................................................... 46

7.4 Post-Construction Phase ................................................................................... 47

7.5 Operation Phase ................................................................................................ 47

7.6 Project Level Monitoring .................................................................................... 47

7.7 DoR Level Monitoring ........................................................................................ 48

7.8 Responsible Monitoring Agencies ...................................................................... 55

7.9 Environmental Management Plan ...................................................................... 56

7.10 Costs for Executing the Environmental Management Action Plan ...................... 68

7.10.1 Specific Cost Details ............................................................................................. 68 7.10.2 Summary Costs for Environmental and Social Safeguard Measures .................. 69

8 OTHER NECESSARY MATTERS ..................................................................... 70

8.1 Review of Acts, Regulations and Guidelines ...................................................... 70

8.1.1 National Acts, Plans and Policies ......................................................................... 70 8.1.2 Environment Related National Legislations for the Construction of Road ........... 71 8.1.3 National Environmental and Social Safeguard Related Documents .................... 73 8.1.4 Review of Relevant International Policies and Conventions ................................ 78

9 GRIEVANCE REDRESS MECHANISM ............................................................ 81

10 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS ................................................. 82

FIGURES Figure 3.1: Map indicating the Location of the Sitalpati - Musikot Road ................................. 5 Figure 3.2: Geological Map of the Mid Western Nepal [after DMG. 1987] ........................... 10

TABLES Table 3.1: Salient Feature of Sitalpati, Salyan – Musikot Road ............................................. 4 Table 3.2: Summary of Quantities of Materials Estimated to carry out the Project ................. 6 Table 3.3: Topography, Geomorphology and Geology of the Road Alignment ...................... 8 Table 3.4: Distribution of the Common Rock Types along the Road ...................................... 9 Table 3.5: Distribution of the Soils along the Road Alignment ............................................. 10 Table 3.2.3.1: Population Composition of the Affected VDCs .............................................. 14 Table 4.3.1: Beneficial Impact ............................................................................................. 26 Table 7.1. : Role and Responsibility for implementing the EMAP ........................................ 44 Table 7.2: Monitoring Indicators Selected for this IEE ......................................................... 45 Table 7.3: Compliance Monitoring for the Sitalpati - Musikot Upgrading Works ................... 49


Road Sector Development Project, (IDA Grant No: H339-NEP) New Project Preparation & Supervision Page iv

Table 7.4: Impact / Effect Monitoring for the Sitalpati-Musikot Highway Upgrading Works . 52 Table 7.9.1: Framework of environmental management plan for beneficial Impacts ............ 56 Table 7.9.2: Framework of Environment Management Plan for Adverse Impact Measures . 58 Table 7.10.1.1: Costs for Tree Plantation ........................................................................... 68 Table 7.10.1.2: Costs for Environmental and Social Monitoring .......................................... 68 Table 7.10.2.1: Cost of Environmental Mitigation and Social Safeguard Measures ............. 69 Table 8.3.1: Procedural Steps in the Land and Property Acquisition Process .................... 74 Table 8.3.2: Support Programs for Dalits laid out in the Tenth Plan .................................... 77

ANNEXES

Annex-A: Environmental Plan Related Agreement Format

Annex-B: Environmental Management Plan Format

Annex-C: Site Photographs


Road Sector Development Project, (IDA Grant No: H339-NEP) New Project Preparation & Supervision Page v

ABBREVIATION/ACRONYMS USED

ADB Asian Development Bank AIDS Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome APs Affected Peoples B/C Benefit/Cost BOQ Bill of Quantities CBO Community Based Organization CBS Central Bureau of Statistics CDO Chief District Officer CFC Compensation Fixation Committee CFUG Community Forest User Group CGI Corrugated Iron CH Chainage (km) CMS Consolidated Management Service Nepal (P) Ltd. DADO District Agriculture Dev Office dB (A) Decibel (A) DDC District Development Committee DFO District Forest Office DHV DHV Consultants, the Netherlands DoR Department of Roads DWSC Department of Watershed and Soil Conservation EIA Environmental Impact Assessment EMP Environmental Management Plan EPA Environmental Protection Act EPR Environmental Protection Regulation FGD Focus Group Discussion FRCU Foreign Cooperation Unit-, DoR FS Feasibility Study FY Fiscal Year GDP Gross Domestic Product GESU Geo-Environmental and Social Unit GI Galvanized Iron GIS Geographical Information System GNP Gross National Product GoN Government of Nepal GRC Grievance Redress Committee HIV Human Immunodeficiency Virus I/NGO International/Non-Governmental Organization IEE Initial Environmental Examination LFB Local Forum of Beneficiaries MOEST Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology MoPPW Ministry of Physical Planning and Works Msl Mean Sea Level mt Metric Ton NPC National Planning Commission NTFP Non Timber Forest Product PAF Project Affected Family PAP Project Affected People RAP Resettlement Action Plan RCC Reinforced Cement Concrete RM Running Meter RMDP Road Maintenance and Development Project RoW Right of Way


Road Sector Development Project, (IDA Grant No: H339-NEP) New Project Preparation & Supervision Page vi

RRA Rapid Rural Appraisal SIA Social Impact Assessment SILT SILT Consultants (P) Ltd. SLC School Leaving Certificate (Class 10) SRN Strategic Road Network STD Sexually Transmitted Disease SWRP & PIP Sector Wide Road Programme and Priority Investment Plan Study ToR Terms of Reference VDC Village Development Committee TSP Total Suspended Particulates vpd Vehicles per day WB The World Bank


Road Sector Development Project, (IDA Grant No: H339-NEP) New Project Preparation & Supervision Page 0

SYNOPSIS

Under the scope of works for ToR of RSDP (New Project Preparation and Supervision), Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) Study report – prepared under PIP April 2007 - for Sitalpati-Musikot road section is reviewed and updated as outlined below: Summary of the Proposal: .No appreciable change in anticipated impacts – beneficial and adverse Description of the Proposal: Reviewed and updated with no substantial change Impact of the Implementation of the Proposal on the Environment: Beneficial Impacts: Reviewed and updated with addition of beneficial impact Adverse Impacts: Reviewed and updated with new additions on physical environmental issues and addition of chemical impact Alternative Analysis: Reviewed and updated with no substantial change Measures to Reduce or Control the Impact of the Implementation of the Project on the Environment (Mitigation Measures): Measures during Construction Phase: Reviewed and updated with no substantial change Benefit Augmentation Measures: Reviewed and updated with addition of new benefit augmentation measures. Adverse Impacts Mitigation Measures: Reviewed and updated with coverage including on new additions on physical environment and addition of chemical impact. Measures during Operation Phase: Reviewed and Updated with no substantial change. Benefit Augmentation Measures: Reviewed and updated with no substantial change. Adverse Impacts Mitigation Measures: Reviewed and updated with coverage including on new additions on physical environment and addition of chemical impact Matters to be Monitored While Implementing the Proposal (EMAP): Reviewed and updated Other Necessary Matters Reviewed with no change Conclusion and Recommendations Reviewed and updated



1 Name and Address of the Institution Preparing the Report

1.1 Proponent and Address

1.1.1 Name of Proposal

The name of the Proposal is „Initial Environmental Examination of Salyan (Sitalpati) – Musikot Road Section under Rapti Rajmarg (H 11) Upgrading Works in Salyan and Rukum District’s, MWDR‟.

1.1.2 Proponent and Address

The Proponent is the Planning and Design Branch, Geo Environment and Social Unit, Department of Roads. The Department of Roads (DoR) is the leading agency for road development under Ministry of Physical Planning and Works (MoPPW) and is responsible for translating government policies for the road sub-sector into the provision of services. The services it provides include planning, design, construction and maintenance of the Strategic Road Network, and provisions to ensure a reasonable level of safety for all road users.

The address of Proponent is: Planning and Design Branch,

Geo-Environment and Social Unit,

Department of Roads,

Babar Mahal, Kathmandu, Nepal

Telephone Number: 4262693 #104, and #139;

Fax Number: 4262993.

Email: [email protected]

[email protected]

1.1.3 Consultant

The consultants of the Road Sector Development Project (New Project Preparation and Supervision) are MM Group Limited Canada in JV with SAI Consulting Engineers (P) Ltd India in association ITECO Nepal (P) Ltd and Total Management Services Nepal

mailto:[email protected]

mailto:[email protected]



2 Summary of the Proposal

2.1 Objective of the Proposal

The objective of the proposal is to upgrade the existing Salyan – Musikot Road Section following the design standards developed for feeder roads by the Department of Roads (DoR). The upgrading works will include widening of the road to a formation of up to 4.5 m1, geometric and grade improvements, improvements in slope stability through application of bio-engineering and upgrading the surface to sealed gravel standard.

2.2 Anticipated Impacts by the Proposed Project

2.2.1 Impact on Land Use

The current land use along the road are (i) forest (45%); (ii) barren land (2.4 %); (iii) cultivated land (14%); (iv) mixed forest and cultivated land (31.8%); (v) grassland (1.6%); and settlement areas (5.2%). During the implementation of project 23.29 ha of land falling within RoW will be acquired. The land to be acquired is mostly agricultural land. After change in ownership from local people to DoR the people will not be allowed to use land and the present land use practice will change.

2.2.2 Impact on the Environment, Impact on Human Life, and Population Pressure

The predicted environmental and social impacts will be both beneficial and adverse. Some of the negative effects caused by the upgrading works will affect people in various negative ways, and cause damage to services and structures.

a. Beneficial Impacts

During the construction stage, the project activities are likely to generate employment opportunities to the poor, vulnerable and socially excluded people of the zone of impact of the Proposal an estimated 213,651 person-days of skilled and 976,267 person-days of unskilled manpower. Improved road access and connectivity to other parts in the country will increase local incomes from agriculture and off-farm activities. The Proponent intends to assist these opportunities in specific support programs through a Vulnerable Community Development Program, which is expected to induce a sustainable livelihood oriented economic development of poor and vulnerable people of the Project Area.

Once in operation, the proposed upgrading of the Road is likely to result in an increase of local land values and development of human resources. The road will contribute to the people‟s saving in transportation and vehicle operation cost, fuel efficiency, reduction in wear and tear of vehicles, increase in productivity of land due to cheaper availability of agriculture inputs and the promotion of cottage industries. Better services and education are expected to result in positive public health aspects, hygiene and sanitation. The stabilization of unstable slopes by means of bio-engineering will also enhance the landscape aesthetics due to additional greenery and covering of these areas.

b. Adverse Impacts

During Construction Stage

1 The actual construction width, including as applicable drainage canals and/or other side structures, may locally

be up to 5.5 m.



Physical and cultural Impacts: Potential adverse impact due to the project is triggering landslides. Around 166 minor and major landslides are reported to exist in project site. No cultural place found to be affected during road construction, so no adverse impact on them is anticipated. Environmental impacts may occur at quarry and borrow pit sites. Water pollution may result from waste disposal and spoil deposits if not properly managed.

Biological Impacts: 15 trees need to be cleared. There are also chances of disturbance to wildlife due to construction activities, killing and harassment by labors.

Socio-economic, Cultural and Religious Impacts: 23.29 ha cultivated land fall in the 10 m corridor of impact.

20 house and 10 temporary sheds need to acquire within corridor of impact along the road corridor.

The issues that need to be addressed during construction activities are occupational/safety risks to the health of labours and the public in general, dust, pollution of water, poor sanitation, road and work site accidents, sexually transmittable diseases, spread of other epidemic diseases, social conflicts and other pressures on the local communities.

Availability of hard cash to local labor, and influx of labor from outside the area can lead to conflict situations such as increase in alcohol consumption, gambling, prostitution and girl trafficking. Such problems may well persist or even increase during the operation phase and need special address.

During Operation Stage

During operation phase, slopes along the road alignment and nearby areas may be destabilized due to rain, de-vegetation of the area, soil extraction and quarry operation. Roadside drains will cause erosion of downhill agriculture fields. Side-tipped spoils will damage to adjacent agriculture fields and cause a variety of other impacts to settlement at foothills.



3 Description of the Proposal

This chapter also contains a detailed description of the environmental and social setting in the Project Area, forming the basis for the impact analysis and the elaboration of mitigation measures, as well as serving as background information for monitoring and auditing the project‟s effects on the bio-physical and social environment after completion of works.

3.1 Type of Proposal

3.1.1 Salient Features

Type of the proposed activities is upgrading 85.85 km of the existing road between Sitalpati, Salyan District to Musikot in Rukum District (see Map, Fig. 3.1) as per Nepal Road Standard, 1971 (first revision 1989) of DoR. The starting point of the road alignment is Sitalpati, Khalanga- the district headquarter of Salyan District to Musikot, the district headquarter of Rukum District. The road alignment passes through the Khalanga, Kajeri, Siddheshwori, Bajkanda, Tharmare, Shibarath and Dhakadam VDCs in Salyan District, and Muru, Khara, Bhalakacha, Chhiwang and Khalanga Musikot VDCs in Rukum District

Salient features relating to this road are shown in the following Table 3.1:

Table 3.1: Salient Feature of Sitalpati, Salyan – Musikot Road

Total length of the road 85.85 km

Existing surface Earthen

Altitude of the lowest point 700 m

Altitude of the highest point 2,000 m

Physiographic region Middle Mountain (midland)

Topography Middle Mountain

Climate Sub-tropical

3.1.2 Type of Goods to be Delivered

The work includes civil works, slope protection and bio-engineering, social and economic development and environmental protection activities.

The final output of the Project is a finished sealed (Otta-seal) gravel surface road.



Figure 3.1: Map indicating the Location of the Sitalpati - Musikot Road



3.1.3 Proposal’s Capacity

The road will be bituminous sealed (Otta Seal of 3.5 m) road with lay-bys. After upgrading of the road, it will serve traffic level of 656 and 524 vehicles per day in the year of opening (2013) at the Shitalpatti – Barala Bazar and Barala Bazar – Musikot section, respectively. The road is expected to cater to 1,274 and 1,006 vehicles per day at the Shitalpatti – Barala Bazar and Barala Bazar – Musikot section, respectively, at the end of its design life (2023) based on the traffic projections. Assuming annual growth-rates ranging from 6.2 to 6.5%, 7.3 to 8% and 4.8 to 5 % for trucks, public vehicles and private vehicles, respectively, over different time horizon of the design period, the commulative axle-loads over the this road is expected to be 4.78 and 4.124 million standard axles at the Shitalpatti – Barala Bazar and Barala Bazar – Musikot section, respectively, during the road's design life (2023). The capacity of the road will be enhanced by being available and open to all traffic for all seasons around the year.

3.1.4 Materials to be used

The materials to be used in the planned project works are as presented in following Table.

Table 3.2: Summary of Quantities of Materials Estimated to carry out the Project

Item Description Unit Quantity

Earthwork Excavation cu.m. 200,000

Boulder for soling, random rubble masonry, dry rubble masonry and gabion boxes. cu.m. 49,500

Concrete class M10/40. cu.m. 1600

Concrete class M20/20. cu.m. 10,000

Gravel as filter material cu.m. 4,300

Common back fill material cu.m. 24,300

Reinforced concrete pipe (NP3, 90 Ø; NP2, 60 Ø) RM 510

Reinforcement Steel MT 18

Formwork Materials sq.m. 65,000

Gravel material for Sub base cu.m. 79,000

Bituminous Binder for Single Otta Seal sq.m. 471,340

Aggregates 16-0 mm for Otta Seal sq.m. 471,340 Source: Technical Feasibility Study Report, Salyan - Rukum Road, 2010

Potential Emission Resulting from Implementation of the Proposal Solids: Being mainly upgrading works, there will be relative small amounts of material to be excavated and dumped as spoil, except for widening and grade improvement works. It is estimated that 15,000 cu.m. of landslide material has to be cleared. Noise: The noise level at the project alignment is low (maximum 50 dBA) as the traffic is low. During construction, the movement and operation of crusher plant and equipments will increase noise level to some extent. However, by applying mitigation measures, the noise level is expected to be within acceptable level of 80 dB (A) for most of the machinery, except for heavy equipment and crushers.



Dust: The dust level in the air is observed generally to be normal, except during passing of occasional vehicles along the road. The upgrading of road will have sealed bituminous layer, and hence the dust pollution will be controlled much better after road construction.

3.1.5 Energy to be used

The energy demand for the construction activities will be supplied by the contractor form outside so will not create pressure on local fuel demand. The energy required for the construction works is mainly diesel and petrol.

3.1.6 Details on the Technology

The technology to be used for upgrading works in the project is through employing local contractors. Mechanized method for specialized works will be employed, such as for surface laying, compacting (vibrator), and laying (distributor) bitumen spreader for spraying bitumen over the overlaid base course; and pneumatic compressor for binding together overlaid chips with bitumen, resulting to sealed bituminous surface. Labour will be used for works that can be done manually, including earthwork, constructing side-drains, bioengineering, etc. Local people will be given priority while carrying out labour-intensive works.

3.1.7 Manpower Requirement

The anticipated work force required for the project works is 213,651 person-days of skilled and 976,267 person-days of unskilled labourers for the entire project period. The unskilled labour should primarily be recruited among local communities, giving due preference to disadvantaged groups and women whenever possible.

3.1.8 Resources Required for the Implementation of the Proposal

Total capital cost needed for this Project is Nrs. 7,844,762.63/- whereas per kilometer cost with previlling norms is Nrs 8,133,870.26.

3.2 Detailed Particulars of the Area where the Project is to be implemented

3.2.1 Physical Environment

a. Road Environment

The proposed road alignment is located in midland (Middle Mountain) physiographic region. The elevation is in the range from 1,000 to 2,000 m from mean sea level (msl) at Shitalpati to Musikot, respectively.

The elevation of the road alignment is partly gradually increasing and partly decreasing from the starting to ending point of the road. The road crosses the Sule Khola, Gaite Khola, Khutte Khola, Latagad Khola, Panidhale Khola, Ritha Khola, Him Khola, Lahu Khola, Sakhu Khola and Bane Khola. All the tributaries are drained out partly in the Sharda River and the road alignment meets the Sharda River at Shitalpati. The tributaries of the Sharda River are perennial during the dry season. All the tributaries are flowing from north to south in direction.

b. Topography and Geomorphology

The Project Area is located in Salyan and Rukum districts. The topographical setting of the road alignment area is characterized by hill and river basin. It is largely a rugged terrain consisting of northwest to southeast and north to south trending ridges. The natural hill slope of the mountains along the road alignment varies from 010 to 350 degrees with inclination range from 005 to 65 degrees.



The Salyan (Shitalpati) - Musikot road gradually ascends from Kalakhet (chainage 26+000; 1300m msl) to Kharibot (chainage 33+000; 1400m msl) along northern face of the hilly terrain. But from Shitalpati (0+000; 700 m msl) to Kalakhet the road alignment follows on nearly flat land of the Sharda River Valley. From Shitalpati, the road alignment runs just above the river valley and nearly on the ridge from Tharmare village to Kharibot (33+000; 1400m msl) passing through Baghchaur village (31+000; 1350m msl). After Kharibot, the road descends gentle towards Raychaur (chainage 35+000; 1450 m msl). From Raychaur to Bangelakuri chainage 41+500; 1600m msl). The elevation of the road alignment ascends with high gradient. Between Bangelakuri and Sim Khola (45+000; 1520m msl) the road elevation gradually decreases and runs the road with high elevation up to Jhengheta village (56+000; 2000m msl). After crossing Jhenghata village the road elevation decreases to Simrut passing through Jalekharka. Between Khara and Bairagi (70+000; 1000m msl), the road runs on nearly flat topography. After crossing Bairagi, the road alignment is passing very gently toward Musikot (chainage 86+500; 1500 m msl)

Geomorphologically, the range of an elevation of 700-2000 m msl between Shitalpati and Musikot road alignment lies in Lesser Himalayan Range. The topography and geomorphology along the road corridor are presented in Table 3.3.

Table 3.3: Topography, Geomorphology and Geology of the Road Alignment

S.

N. Section/

Chainage Length

(km) Elevation

range

(m)

Cross

slope

(degree)

Aspect Geology Geomorphology Soil type Landuse

pattern

1. Shitalpati-

Kalakhet

(0+000-

26+000)

26.00 1000-

1300

15 - 45 Southwest

-northwest

Schist,

Dolomite

quartzite

Intermediates

slopes of the

middle to upper

mountain zones

but road is runs

on nearly parallel

to Sharda River

valley

Residual

Colluvium,

alluvium

Forest

and grass

land

2. Kalakhet-

Kharikot

(26+000-

33+000)

7.00 1300-

1400

30 – 60 Southwest Slate,

quartzite,

dolomite

Intermediate

slopes of the

middle

mountains

Residual

and

Colluvium

Grass

land and

forest

and dry

cultivated

land

3. Kharibot-

Bangelak

uri

(33+000-

41+500)

8.50 1400-

1600

15-65 Northwest

southwest

Slate,

quartzite,

phyllite,

dolomitic

limestone

Intermediate

steep slope

Residual

and

Colluvium

Cultivate

d land

and

forest

4. Bangelak

uri-Sim

Khola

(41+500-

45+000)

3.50 1600-

1520

20 – 45 South-

West

Slate,

dolomitic

limestone

Intermediates

slopes of the

middle to upper

mountain zones

but road is runs

on nearly parallel

to river valley

Residual

and

Alluvium

Cultivate

d land

and

forest

5 Sim

Khola-

9.00 150-2000 30 - 50 Southwest Schist,

dolomite

Intermediates

slopes of the

Residual

and

Cultivate

d land



S.

N.

Section/

Chainage

Length

(km)

Elevation

range

(m)

Cross

slope

(degree)

Aspect Geology Geomorphology Soil type Landuse

pattern

Jhulneta

(45+000-

56+000)

middle to upper

mountain zones

but road is runs

on nearly parallel

to river valley

colluvium and

forest

6 Jhulneta-

Simrut

56+000-

67+000)

11.00 2000-

1200

20 - 50 Northwest

southwest

Schist,

dolomite

Intermediate

slopes of the

middle

mountains

Residual

and

colluvium

Cultivate

d land

and

forest

7 Simrut-

Musikot

(67+000-

86+500)

19.50 1200-

1500

30 -65 South-

West

Schist

dolomite,

phullite

Intermediate

slopes of the

middle

mountains

Residual

and

colluvium

Cultivate

d land

and

forest

Source: Geological Survey, Feasibility Study, SWRP & PIP, 2006.

c. Geology and Soils

The road alignment belongs to the Midland Group of Lesser Himalaya of the Mid Western Nepal and consists of sedimentary to low-grade metamorphic rocks. The dominant rock types of the road alignment are slates, intercalation of phyllite and quartzite, dolomite, phyllite. The road alignment is running on the rocks of the Lakharpata, Ranimatta, Kushma formations (Midland Group) and Surbang and Siuri formations of Jaljala Group. Thick bedded, fine-grained, grey to dark grey dolomite and dolomitic limestone intercalation with black to grey shale is the main lithology of the Lakharpata Formation. The Kusma formation is white to grey, fine- to medium-grained quartzite with phyllite. The Ranimata Formation is composed of grey, greenish-grey, gritty phyllite and phyllitic quartzite, metasandstone and conglomerate beds with white, massive quartzite and basic rocks are intrusion. The Surbang Formation is crystalline limestone interbedded with schist. The Siuri Formation is represented by the garnetiferous schist and gneiss.Details of the lithostratigraphy is shown in Fig. 3.2 in the following page. Type of rock along the road is as presented in Table 3.4.

Table 3.4: Distribution of the Common Rock Types along the Road

S.N. Common rock types Coverage length % Length in (m) Remarks

1 Hard rock 37.11% 32,100 Quartzite, schist, dolomite

2 Soft rock 9.71% 8,400 Slate, phyllite

Source: Field Survey, 2006

There is a northeast to southwest oriented fault occurred at the contact between the Galyang and Ranimatta formations. There is a thrust which is extending from nearly east to west direction. Geological structures are presented in the geological map (Fig. 3.2). These above mentioned thrusts are not directly affecting the road alignment. Although there are minor and local geological structures like fault and folding of the rocks are present along the road alignment.

Mainly three types of soil are found along the road alignment between Gokuleshwar and Thaktoli i.e., residual soil, colluvium and alluvium. Among these three soil types, the residual soil is dominant along the road alignment. In general, the type of soil found in the project area are presented in Table 3.5.



Table 3.5: Distribution of the Soils along the Road Alignment

S.N. Common soils Coverage length

(%) Coverage length

(m) Remarks

1 Common soils 28.67% 24,800 Residual soil

2 Boulder mixed soils

24.51% 21,200 Alluvium and colluvium soils

Source: Geological Survey, Feasibility Study 2006

Figure 3.2: Geological Map of the Mid Western Nepal [after DMG. 1987]

Note: The broken line shows the Study Area (Shitalpati, Salyan - Musikot road); Source: Field Survey, 2006

d. Landslides and Slope Stability

166 major and minor landslides including cut slope failures are observed along the Road alignment. Most of the slides are found in colluvium. These slides are shallow in depth. These slides are also found in forest and dry cultivated land area and found along the road. Some slides are observed below (downhill of) the road. As far as seismcity is concerned, the observed landslides are unlikely to have been directly influenced by occasional tectonic activities associated with the thrust and faults. The main causes for occurring slides are

Salyan – Musikot Road



argued to be rock weathering, precipitation, surface and undercutting of slope by road cutting, loose materials on steep hill slope and groundwater. The failure mechanisms are mainly the shear failure. Some of the slides are stabilized naturally and some slides are moving every year by initial mechanism. Presently, the slide condition is unstable due to the hanging blocks at the crown part of the slides. These hanging blocks may fall down after heavy rainfall.

The exposed rocks (i.e., slate and dolomite) are moderately to highly weathered condition. The orientations of the natural hill slope and foliation plane of the rocks are oblique to each other. Therefore, there is very less possibility of the failure in the road alignment. Nevertheless, some of places have high possibility of plane failure in the rock. The occurred landslides are not directly influenced by the tectonic activity (i.e., activities of thrust and fault) but it is considered that the slides are occurred due to loose materials (colluvium and residual soils) on the steep hill slope and presence of highly to completely weathered rock. The slope stability condition of the whole road alignment is presented in Appendix VI.

In general, the stereographic projection shows that the stability condition is good and there is very less possibility of slope failures along the road alignment.

e. Source of Construction Materials

The previous consultants have suggested several quarry sites for construction material for Sheetalpati -Mushikot Road.

Sharada River Ghatte Khola Dhorchaur Khola Chaukuli Khola Shankha Khola

Of these, Dhorchaur and Chaukuli kholas are very narrow. The riverbed material in both the cases consists of poor quality rock i.e. schist and phyllites. Besides, the aggregates are flaky and one has to cover a long distance in order to collect any siezable amount of aggregate. So at this stage of feasibility study these sites are excluded as sources of construction materials. However, the source material was inspected only in the vicinity of the existing road and further visits should be made to assess whether good quality material can be obtained further upstream. Besides the riverbed material a few of the probable quarry sites have been located (CH: 54+500 and another near Patare Bazaar about 20 Km from Shitalpati).(Reviewed and Updated)

f. Land Use Forms

The current land use along the road are (i) forest (45%); (ii) barren land (2.4 %); (iii) cultivated land (14%); (iv) mixed forest and cultivated land (31.8%); (v) grassland (1.6%); and settlement areas (5.2%).

g. Climate

Salyan District: The mean air temperature record of Salyan District in the year 2000 is max. temperature of 23.4 0C and min. temperature of 13.6 0C and mean daily temperature of 18.5 0C. Absolute extreme temperature recorded are max. 35 0C in May in the year 1999 and min. of 1.6 0C in January in 1999. Precipitation recorded was 1483 mm total during year 2000. Max. precipitation in 24 hours recorded was 69 mm in July in the year 2000.



Rukum District: The mean air temperature record of Rukum district in the year 2000 is max. temperature of 24.2 0C and min. temperature of 12.8 0C and mean daily temperature of 18.8 0C. Absolute extreme temperature recorded are max. 33.6 0C in May in the year 1999 and min. of -0.5 0C in January in 1999. Precipitation recorded was 2843 mm total during year 2000. Max. precipitation in 24 hours recorded was 129 mm in April in the year 2000. h. Rainfall

Three rainfall stations, Sallyan Bazar-0511, Lawamjula Bazar-0517 and Musikot-0514 are close to the road alignment. The annual rainfall varies about 684 mm to 2,538 mm. About seventy eight percent of the rainfall falls in monsoon (June-Sept) season.

i. Air, Noise and Water Quality The air quality parameters of the proposed road section are within the acceptable limits as there is few vehicles plying. Water quality in the proposed road section is observed to be good since it is free from any kind of pollution sources. There is no defecation problem observed around the drinking water sources. However, during the monsoon season the quality of water may be polluted due the accumulation of silt, etc. The proposed area does not have any sources of noise nuisance.

3.2.2 Biological Environment

The main alignment passes through forest areas in various sections of the road. Main forest areas lies in the Kajeri, Siddheswori and Shibarath VDCs.

a. Natural Forests and Tree Vegetation The dominant forest and fodder species reported in the road alignment are Khote Sallo (Pinus roxburghii), Uttis (Alnus nepalensis), Ryaz, Kafal (Myrica esculenta), Lali Gurans (Rhododendron arboreum), Bajh (Quercus lanata), Dhayero, Aiselu (Rubus ellipticus), Chutro (Mahonia acanthifolia), Kutmero (Litsea monopelata), Gittho (Discorea bulbifera), Saj (Terminalia alata), Datkuno, Phalant (Quercus lineata.), Mauwa (Engelhardia spicata), Kattus (Castonopsis indica), Lankure (Fraxinus floribunda), and Mayal (Pyrus pashia).

b. NTFPs Non timber forest products (NTFPs) are defined as any kind of products derived from forest species other than timber and fuel wood. The main NTFP species found along the road alignments are: Harro (Terminalia chebula), Barro (Terminilia bellirica), Amala (Phyllanthus emblica), Pakhanbhed, Kakarsingo, Kurilo (Asparagus officinalis), Dalchhini (Cinnamonum zeylanicumi), Chiraito (Swertia angustifolia), Tejpat (Cinnammomum tamala), Kaulo (Persea adoratissima), Rittho (Sapindus mukurossi), Timur (Xanthoxylum armatum), Sugandhawal (Valeriana jatamansii) and Sungava (Orchidaceae sp.) Vegetation that fall within Road Construction Width (10 m): 15 trees are observed to fall within the 10 m corridor of impact.

Vegetation that fall within Road RoW (30 m): Total of 2,928 numbers of trees was found within RoW. Salla tree was found to be highest which counts 1,905 trees followed by Banjh (251), Uttis (199), Ryaz (133), Sal (126), Tudi (84), Khari (35), Pipal (26), Simal (26), Saj (26), Katuz (23), Rittho (21), Lakure (15), Kafal (13), Aamrai (11), Guras (10), Sisam (7), Bakaino (6), Paeeue (6), Bar (2), Bayesh (2), Mauwa (2), Epeel (1), Eucalyptus (1), Bottlebrush (1),Koiralo (1), and Putlee (1)

c. Government and Community Forests (CFs)

(i) Government Forest:

7 Government forests of about 110 ha falls along the raod corridor. It benefits about 670 household. Most Government forest is in good condition with rich floral diversity. The



Government forests are Barala (Kazeere-6), Laljhari (Siddheswori-1), Aaujaekhola (Shivarath-2), Sareenee (Shivarath-1), Ghoptepatal (Shivarath-2,1), Daregaura (Dhakadam-3) and Sangure (Bhalakacha-7).

(ii) Community Forest:

12 CFs with 1040.5Ha are located along the road corridor from which 1501 households are directly benefited. All community forests are rich in floral diversity. The CFs are Chandrapala (Salyan Khalanga-4) Laljhar (Kazeere-7), Masina (Kazeere-1),Duberichaur (Siddheswori-9), Jalalmare (Bajhkada-7), Dhairaynnee (Tharmare-1,4), Aglatakura (Tharmare-5), Moolkhola (Shivarath-9), Laliguras (Muru-1), Sallaghari (Muru-3), Salleri (Muru, Rugha-2) and Solabang (Khalanga-6, Rukkum).

d. Useful Plants Uttis, Tooni, Bajh, Champ, Kattus, Kafal, Chutro, Kaulo, Falat, Pangar, Phalant, Okhar, Sanjh, Khote Sallo, Ryaz, Arekad, Ayar, Bhalaha, Chariwal, Chinnay, Dabdabay, Dimur, Faledo, Kagee, Katus, Lakuree are important trees for timber. Whereas the non-timber-forest products (NTFPs) available in the area are pakhadbhed, kakarsingo, kurilojara, amala, dalchhini, chiraito (titae), tejpat, kaulo (pawanbokra), rittho, Khoto, timur, Sugandhawala, Sungava (Orchidaceae sp.), Harro and Barro, Bojho, Kanchero, Batuleti, Badimool, Mahajari, Silpu, Gurjo, Methi, Ragatjari, and Kurilo.

e. Terrestrial Wildlife

Altogether 26 species of mammals were found in the Project Area: Chituwa (Panthera pardus), Ghoral (Naemorhedus goral), Ratuwa (Muntiacus muntijak), Bandar (Macaca mulata), Dumsi (Hystrix indica), Kharayo (Caprolagus hispidus) and Syal (Canis aureus), Oat (Lutra lutra), Hundar (Hyena hyena), and Malsappro (Mortes flarigula) (Field Survey, 2010).

A total of 80 species of birds were documented from field observations and from consultation with local people: Chil, (Spizaetus nipalensis) Bajh(Falco Sps), Huchil (Bubo bubo), Maina (Gracula religiosa), Giddha(Gyps sps), Suga(Psitta sp), Ullu(Otus sp), Kaliz (Lophura leucomelana), Teetra(Francolinus fracolinus), Chyakhura (Perdix hodgsoniae) (Field Survey, 2010). Suga is major crop raiders.

The number of herpetofauna recorded in the project area counts 36 among which 18 were Snakes, 9 lizards and 9 frogs. Among snakes Harekano, Batase and Barekano were the frequently observed species. Among lizards Pattharchap and Bhanemungro were common while among frogs Khasrey, Kore and Paha were reported to be common species in the project area (Field Survey, 2010).

f. Protected and Endangered Species of Flora and Fauna

Okkhar (Juglans regia), Sugandhawal, are protected species according to Forest Act (1983). Out of the mammals reported in the area, Ghoral (Naemorhedus goral) Oadh(lutra lutra),) have been included in the CITES – I category and Lower risk/near threatened category of IUCN. Similarly, Ban biralao(Felis chaus), Rato bandar(Macaca mulata) and Chamero(Pteropus giganteus) have been included in CITES appendix-2. According to the National Park and Wildlife Reserve protection act Dwanse Chituwa (Neofelis nebulosa) is the protected species. Dwanse Chituwa (Neofelis nebulosa has been included under the vulnerable category of IUCN.

Out of birds reported in the Project area, Chil and Bajh(Falco Sps) have been included in CITES-I and Huchil (Bubo bubo), Maina (Gracula religiosa), Giddha (Gyps sps), Suga (Psitta sp) and Ullu (Otus sp) have been included in CITES appendix II.



g. Fish and Other Aquatic Animals

The river Sarada provides the habitat for fishes such as Asala, Bam, Buduna, Jhingay, Charungoo, Potay, Chilnay, Garela, Jhojo etc., according to the local respondents near Sarada River and its tributaries.

3.2.3 Social, Socio-Economic and Cultural Environment

a. Population and Demography According to the population census of 2001, the total population of the Salyan district and

Rukum district is 213500 and 188438 respectively whereas the projected population of 2010

is 212401 and 223906 respectively. The population distribution between male and female of

Salyan district is almost same as 50 percent whereas the population distribution between

male and female of Rukam district is 51 percent and 49 percent respectively.

The combined population of the affected VDCs is 73448 with the average household size of

6. The percentage of male and female population is 49.8 and 50.2 respectively. Table

3.2.3.1 shows the population composition of affected VDCs.

Table 3.2.3.1: Population Composition of the Affected VDCs

VDCs Total HH Male Female Total

Population Ave. HH Size

Khalanga 1629 3722 3672 7394 4.54

Syanikhel 945 2416 2632 5048 5.34

Dadagaun 413 1127 1046 2173 5.26

Kajeri 1002 2759 2850 5609 5.60

Siddeshwori 840 2558 2494 5053 6.02

Bajhkanda 148 552 490 1041 7.06

Tharmare 184 551 543 1094 5.95

Pipalneta 438 1201 1220 2421 5.53

Shibarath 1041 2917 3029 5946 5.71

Dhakadam 1156 3086 3245 6332 5.48

Khara 1007 3214 3244 6458 6.41

Muru 673 2123 2123 4247 6.31

Runga 794 2440 2489 4929 6.21

Bhalakacha 738 2293 2298 4592 6.23

Musikot 1995 5648 5465 11113 5.57

Total 13001 36606 36841 73448 6.00

Source: District Development Profile of Nepal

b. Ethnic Groups The project affected districts have Multi ethnic Composition. Brahmin, Chhetri, Janajati and

Dalit are major groups in the districts. The ethnic composition of the project affected

households is presented given below. The distribution of ethnic composition in the study

area is 5 percent Brahmin, 55 percent Chhetri, 17 percent Janajati 21 percent Dalits and

remaining 2 percent are others groups.



c. Migration The trend of immigration to road edge is high in the study area. Most of the households

along with the road section are migrated form the remote part of the very settlement. People

from the village areas are generally migrated to the Nepalgunj and Kathmandu for

employment opportunities. Temporary migration for the education and job opportunities are

the common trend in the area. The major cause of migration is employment opportunities.

However the main causes of in-migration are trade and facilities.

d. Settlement and Housing Patterns Settlement patterns in the project areas generally reflect the distribution of arable land and

the development of market areas along trade routes. Accordingly, most of the areas exhibit a

scattered settlement pattern. The settlement in the bazaar areas like Shitalpati, Kajeri,

Tharmare, Muru, Runga and Musikot are of cluster type. Besides bazaar area, almost all the

settlements are scattered.

e. Occupation and Livelihoods The economy of Nepal centres on subsistence agriculture, with a small percentage of the

population formally employed outside the agricultural sector. Regarding economically active

population, in Salyan district there are 39614 economically active populations whereas in

Rukum district there are 107106 economically active populations.

The predominant occupation of the people living in the project area is agriculture (42%),

mostly subsistence. Lack of all weather road transportation and difficult access to modern

farm inputs greatly inhibit agricultural growth and diversification. Besides agriculture, other

occupations that provide employment and income to the locals are business (26%), wage

labourer (19%), services (6%), and foreign employment (8%). The date which shows the

higher involvement in the trade and business is the cause of the study area which was only

carried out with in the 2 kilometres either side of road.

f. Agriculture The cultivated land of Salyan district is 34383 ha, which is about 23 percent of total land.

Likewise, the cultivated land of Rukum district is 28415 ha, which is about 10 percent of total

land. Wheat, maize, paddy, barley, millet, potato, ginger and beans are the major crops in

the project area.

The area is food deficit for major food grains. The study VDCs are also food deficit. Only

about 6 percent household have year round food sufficiency. Likewise about 8 percent

households have 9-12 months food sufficiency, 20 percent 6-9 months, 26 percent 3-6

months and 41 percent households have less than 3 months food sufficiency.

g. Administration and other Services There are 2 Police Posts, 2 Forest Post, 3 Agriculture Services Centre, 2 Veterinary Clinic and 2 water supply offices within the Project Area. Most such services are available in Musikot khalanga and Salyan khalanga VDCs. It needs to be noted that large numbers of people are not in a position to take benefits from the existing service centres for different reasons such as lack of awareness, poor service delivery, distances, lack of resources and/or the persisting conflict situation with law & order in the area.



h. Health Status People in these areas mainly rely on health posts and sub-health posts that are often

inadequately staffed and experienced to deal with the full range of health cases and issues.

People from the market area like Khalanga, Tharmare and Musikot are relying on private

clinic. Regarding Muru VDC people frequently visit to mission hospital. The health services

in the project area are not satisfactory. Field study reports presented that there are 12 health

post/sub-health posts, 7 hospitals including Mission hospital, 22 private clinics and one

Ayurvedic centre in the project affected VDCs.

i. Water Supply and Sanitation Majority of the households located in the zone of influence had piped water supply as the

main source of drinking water which is about 93 percent. Only 4 percent households have

reported the use of well/spring as their main source of drinking water. Remaining 3 percent

are using stream water.

j. Energy and Electricity Most of the people in the project area use fuel wood for cooking and electricity for lighting

purpose. Fire wood is the major source of cooking energy for the majority of the households

in the area which is about 80 percent. Altogether 10 percent households are using L.P. gas;

similarly 7 percent people have access over Bio-gas and remaining households are using

kerosene for cooking.

Majority of the households in the study area i.e. zone of influence have electricity facility

which is about 67 percent. Significant numbers of households have reported the use of solar

facility as their main lighting source which is about 20 percent. Other sources of lighting are

Tukimara, kerosene and Jharo.

k. Markets Shalyan khalanga, Musikot khalanga, Khara, Tharmare, Kajeri and Siddeshwori are the major markets for the people of the project area. These markets are the supply centres of all daily consumer goods, construction materials, and agricultural inputs to other surrounding small bazaars, shops and households of project area. Few small grocery shops are found in the villages along the foot trail, where all the consumer goods such as, pulses, salt, edible oil, kerosene, biscuits, noodles, candles, shoes and other consumer goods are sold.

l. Small/Cottage Industries There are numbers of water mill, rice mill, tailor, shoes maker and blacksmith shop in the VDCs. Water mill (192) and rice mills (38) are the most important cottage industry in the area that process the locally produced agriculture products. Tailor (11), blacksmith (109), furniture (5) and shoes maker (67) are present in the VDCs which serves the local people.

m. Income and Expenditure

The average annual income of a household of the project affected area is NRs 12054. The main sources of income of the year round are agriculture (NRs 5481/HH), wage labour including agricultural labour and other labour ( NRs 549/HH), service (NRs 1776HH), business/industry(NRs 1871/HH) and remittance (NRs 1294/HH). Other sources of income are House rent/land rent (NRs 51/HH), interest (NRs 529/HH), and other miscellaneous (NRs 503/HH). The remittance, agriculture and wage labour are the main income generating sources in the area.



Average annual expenditure of a household is NRs 16668. People of the projected area expend high amount for purchasing food grains/pulses (20.8%) followed by Festival (13.9%), Vegetable/salt and species (12.7%), Clothing (7.7%), Recreation (6.6%), Fish/meat/egg (6.3%), Fertiliser (4.7%), Milk/butter (3.9%) and education (3%) etc. n. Gender Issues It is widely reported that women are discriminated and exploited by their own family members. Due to seasonal absence of migration of males, women carry out both household and outside farm related works. Many women of the area have no property in their name. Hence, they are not entitled to get loans from banks and other financial institutions. The society also imposes restrictions on the mobility of women and their participation in the public sphere. Although many domestic and some international NGOs are operating in the area, the travel as well as socio-cultural restrictions has been a barrier for women in exploiting the opportunities for their social and economic enhancement. The participation of women is higher in traditional type of works such as water fetching, fodder collection, cooking, childcare etc. Much of the decision making falls within the male domain. It distinctly shows the overwhelming male dominance in terms of decision-making in the area. Altogether 18 percent of the population in the Project Area are Dalits. They are a highly marginalised group because of lack of education, job opportunity, economic condition, health facilities as compared to other ethnic groups. Among them, Dalit women become double victims, one by patriarchy and another by untouchables. Both practices are deep rooted and have significantly disadvantaged Dalit women. Most of Dalit parents do not send their daughters to school although they are entitled to get free education up to grade five.

o. Land Type and Holding Size Altogether 48% of the households living within the 30m road corridor own some land. The majority cultivates these land. The bulk of the land owned is non-irrigated (bari).The average land holding size of the surveyed households is 10.7 ropani (0.54ha), which is relatively high in the Nepalese context. However, the majority of holdings (91%) are less than 20 ropani implying that there are relatively few large landholdings. p. Religious Activities Hindu festivals and rites prevail in this region as Magar,Chhetri and Brahmin are the major castes, most of which are Hindus. Kotghar Bhagwati mandir and Siddha Kuma is the major temple in project area. Large numbers of people gather to celebrate at this temples on 15th and 30th day of the lunar calendar (Only Reviewed)

q. Social Activities In the Project Area 58 different social community are functioning actively, about 21% female are involved as members of those user committees and groups. Males are commonly more active in the users groups. (Only Reviewed)



4 Impact of the Implementation of the Proposal on the Environment

The identification and prediction of impacts has been made by giving due consideration to the proposed actions/activities during construction and operation stages of the Project. Both beneficial and potential adverse impacts were analysed. The potential impacts have been predicted in terms of their magnitude of significance (low, moderate and high), extent (site specific, local and regional) and duration (short term, medium term and long term) as well as their nature (reversible, irreversible)2. The summary matrix of the identified impacts and the respective mitigation measures are presented in Table 4.3.1. and Table 4.3.2

4.1. Beneficial Impacts

4.1.1 Construction Stage

The proposed road passes though various settlements in the district. The construction works will attract many people of the nearby areas for different opportunities ranging from labour works to spin-offs leading to improved farm and off-farm activities, which may ultimately benefit the local economy.

a. Employment and Income One of the major direct beneficial impacts of the road during construction stage is the creation of employment opportunity to the local community. The construction approach, which emphasizes using local people, tends to benefit directly to the people living in the roadside VDCs of the directly affected areas .This road construction will create of 976267 unskilled and 213651 skilled person days work. The impact is thus direct, high significant, local but short term in nature. If the earned wage income is saved and utilized for micro-enterprises, benefit can be of long duration. b. Enterprise Development and Commercialization The emergence of enterprise development and commercialisation are the major outcomes obtained from the road construction activities in order to meet the demand of labour groups, construction crew and project team. In general, the enterprises will include food and tea shops, groceries, lodges and restaurants for serving large numbers of people. The demand for local products such as pulses, milk, meat, vegetables, fruits etc. will rise during the construction period which may provide added impetus for local production and marketing. This will contribute to the local rural economy and may help reduce rural poverty. Such benefits may contribute to enterprise development which often continues to entrench beyond construction period. This impact will be direct, high significance, local and short-term to medium-term in nature.

c. Skill Enhancement As the providing employment opportunities for local people as skilled and unskilled labor is one of the strategy of the RSDP project, it supports in transfer of skills and technical know-how while working in construction works. Similarly, as a part of socio-economic development program, the Proponent will give training to the local poor and vulnerable community in other

2 - Short-term-project period- project construction duration

- Medium-term - 3 years after completion of project - Long-term - > 5 years after completion of project }



income generation activities, as identified by them. These skills will benefit the locals in getting long-term employment opportunity in other road construction projects in future. The impact is indirect, medium significance, local and long-term in nature. d. Vulnerable Community Development and Income Generation Plan The road directly benefits only those populations who have enough land and live nearby road and in major settlement /market areas. But, the vulnerable people living away from road, without land and property do not receive benefit from road construction. Rather they run the risk of being driven out by richer migrants and entering even deeper into the vicious circle of poverty. Thus, the Proponent intends to cater some specified plans and programs for the development of vulnerable communities of road served areas through social development plans and income generation plans. This will assist to bring the vulnerable peoples in the mainstream of development, maximize benefit of road upgrading, and strengthen their social and economic conditions and livelihood. The impact will be indirect, medium significance, local and long - term.

e. Awareness on Resource Management The project will adopt bioengineering treatments. This activity will enhance the local understanding on the importance of vegetation, particularly the trees and shrubs, including grasses for road slope stabilization. It is also likely that local people will have the opportunity to be aware about the importance of plants and its contribution to the stability of the road. The impact is indirect, medium significance, local and long-term in nature.

4.1.2 Operation Stage

A number of beneficial impacts of the Proposal are anticipated during the operational stage, some of which are as indicated below.

a. Improved Access and Reduced Travel Costs

At present, the earthen road is only operateable during the dry season. People have to walk for 1 and days to reach the Musikot from Sitalpati, once the road is upgraded, people would have easy, comfortable and quick access to markets, social services and other parts of the country. Improved access contributes in national integration of the remote parts of the country. Moreover, the improved road surface will reduce the wear and tear of vehicles, thus reducing the general costs for spare parts, and it will increase the fuel efficiency and reduce vehicular emissions. New market areas and settlements will develop, urbanization and industrialization will be possible, and all this will lead to the regional development of the area.

This will be direct, medium Significance, regional and long-term impact.

b. Increased Crop Productivity and Sale of Farm Products

Due to the difficulty in transportation facilities, the availability of seed, chemical fertilizer, new crop technologies and market link and diversification seem constrained in this area. This acts as barrier for increment of crop productivity despite the market demand in nearby market areas. Once the road is upgraded, it will provide improved access to seeds, chemical fertilizer, irrigation, agriculture extension, new crop technologies and markets assisting in increased agriculture production and diversification. Agro-industries may be established in nearby areas based on local products as raw materials. This will enhance economic

activities within the area. Such impacts are indirect, high significant, regional in extent and long term in nature.



c. Enhancement of Social Services

On one side, the upgrading road will enhance the easy access to social services education, health, irrigation, water supply, electricity, communication, market, and banking. On other side, it will also contribute to raise quality services in social sector as more competent agencies and people will enter into the area to provide the services. Girl student in particular can attend the classes even at distant areas after efficient transportation services. Qualified

doctors and other service providers will be encouraged to stay in the area. The impact is indirect, medium significance, local and long-term in nature.

d. Rise of Land Values

Road construction and upgrading often leads to rising land values along the road corridor. Increased land values also enhance farmers‟ capability for borrowing loans on collaterals. High value lands are easily acceptable to banks and micro-finance institutions to provide

loans. This impact will be an indirect, high significant, local and long term in nature.

e. Women Empowerment

All the people will be benefited from the road construction. However, women in particular may be benefited more from improved access to the market centers and various service providing agencies like health centers, banks, training institutions, women development office etc. Frequency of visit to such agencies will increase awareness level and empower

the women. Girl students will be encouraged to go to school due to road accessibility.The impacts are seen indirect, medium significance, local to regional and long-term

4.2 Adverse Impacts

The project activities during construction and in the operation of the road may create a number of adverse impacts on the local environment. These are discussed briefly in the following Sub-sections.

4.2.1 Construction Stage

(i) Physical Impact

a. Impacts due to Slope Instability During upgrading, few vegetated area needs to remove and some lands with exposed soil and unstable rock structure have to be cut. All these activities increase the slope instability further thus triggering more soil erosion. This can become a major source of silt in the monsoon increasing suspended and bed load in rivers and clogging drains of road and irrigation canals. A comprehensive set of mitigation measures, most of them relating to bio-engineering is required to address these problems. The impact due to this will be direct, of medium significance, site specific and long -term in nature b. Impacts due to Spoil Disposal The excavation of materials generated particularly during road widening and grade correction need to be disposed in appropriate locations which may not always be readily available due to long haulage distance and difficult terrain. The common problems from inappropriate disposal of spoils are contamination of water bodies and gully formation and erosion of spoil, especially when combined with unmanaged surface water runoff. Slope overloading if side-coasted at downhill slope can result in slope failures. Disruption of natural drainage pattern can cause scouring, erosion and landslides. It can also negatively affect aquatic biota and the water quality. Inadequate spoil disposal may often cause damage to farmlands, crops and property at downhill through direct deposition, or indirectly as result of



mass flow. The impacts from spoil disposal during the upgrading of the proposed road will be direct, of high significance, site-specific and short-term in nature. c. Impacts on Water Resources by Inadequate Drainage While constructing road and providing the cross drainage structure and roadside drains, the existing natural flow path of water will be altered. Discharge of concentrated flow of water from roadside drain through cross-drainage structure may erode downstream slope and fields. This will be the direct impact. Alteration of drainage can also disrupt local irrigation practices by diverting flowing water into agriculture fields. Water source may dry-up, and water holes of cattle or wildlife may get affected. This will be indirect impact. Impacts from alteration of drainage due to construction of cross drainage structures and roadside drain discharges will be direct, of high significance, site-specific and long-term in nature

d. Impacts due to Quarrying Materials and Borrow Pit Operation The construction of road upgrading works particularly, gravelling, retaining wall, breast wall, gabion wall and other structures will require boulders, sand and aggregates. The quarry site for these materials will be largely on local streams and hill slopes near the road alignment, which is adequate to meet the requirement. Environmentally acceptable and technically viable sources of materials are Sharda River, Ghate Khola, Shankha Khola for boulder, cobble, gravel and sand. (Updated Feasibility Study, 2010).The extraction of materials from inappropriate places or in excessive amount can seriously damage the local environment. For example, quarrying from a high slope and fragile area can result slope instability, extraction of sand and gravel in excessive amount from river can cause riverbank cutting and erosion and changes in river regime. It may cause landslide, erosion or box cutting of agriculture land, impact on sensitive environmental areas etc. This will eventually affect the livelihood of local people. . Impacts from quarrying and borrowing will be of direct, medium significance, site-specific and long-term in nature. e. Impacts Originating from Air, Noise and Water Pollution During implementation of the Proposal, dusts and smoke will be emitted. This will be temporary and intense along the construction sites. Roadside dwellers, travellers, vegetation, and workers will be affected by dust and smoke from operation of crusher plant and asphalt plant, transportation of materials, operation of heavy equipments and bitumen heating. As most of the construction work will be carried out during dry season, dust emission will be expected to be locally high. As most of the construction work will be carried out during dry season, dust emission will be expected to be locally high. Dust will also affect the road side vegetation and agriculture crops. Impacts on air quality will be of direct, medium significance, local and short-term in nature.

At present, the Project Area does not experience much significant noise pollution. However, during construction, the increased construction activities, movement of heavy equipments and the operation of crusher plants will cause noise pollution. Impacts due to noise pollution due to construction works of Project will be direct, of low significance, local and short-term in nature.

The water quality of water bodies within the project area appears to be in pristine condition. Water sources are widely utilized for irrigation, household use and drinking for both humans and the domestic cattle. During construction, these water bodies are at risk to be affected due to the disposal of excavated materials and waste by the labour camps, dust, fuel leakage and spill of various hazardous materials if no care and adequate regulation mechanisms are in place. The impact due to this will be direct, of medium significance, local, and long-term in nature.



f. Impacts due to access Road Opening by the Proposed Road Upgraded Stretch

It has seen from the previous road project that once the road construction activities, local stakeholder are seem to open the access track to their villages and sometimes, access road is also constructed by the contractor to open the access to the quarry site. All these exert pressure on contractors to open the unplanned track. These activities could bring several environmental impacts (Impact to forest resources, wildlife, topography etc) to the nearby areas that could be unpredictable and beyond measure at present. The impact is direct, high significance, local and short- medium term in nature

g. Impacts due to lack of awareness on safety of Labor Forces Involved in Road Works

especially in Risk Prone Ones – Quarry, Rock Break Up Works, On construction period, large number of labour is deployed to perform the construction activities. The labour deployed in rock cutting and rock break-up works in quarry site and rock widening site are highly prone to risk if they are not aware on safely issue and do not take safety measures like helmet, glove, boots, goggle, ear guards with sponge muffler etc. It even brings loss of life if this kind of impact is subject to negligent.. The impact from unawareness on camp sanitation by the labour will be direct, local and short term in nature. h. Impacts due to Establishment and Operation of Crusher Plants

The establishment, operation and crusher used in meeting the requirement of sub base, base material can be source of air pollution, noise pollution and even water pollution if it is placed near built up area and near the water sources. This issues if properly not addressed it could bring malefic effects to the human health. Likewise, improper safeguard measure taken during such activities could be concern of health of human beings. The impact is direct, low significance, local and short term in nature

i. Stockpiling of Construction Materials

Construction material storage site pose adverse impact during construction stage. Erosion from stockpiled material will cause water pollution, land value degradation, loss of agricultural productivity, and nuisance. This impact is short term in duration, local in scale and short in magnitude.

(ii) Impacts on the Biological Environment

a. Impact on Vegetation and Forest Resources

As the road already exists, the upgrading of road is not expected to create much serious ecological impacts by clearing of forest. However, in some places, around 15 tree will be subject to removal.None of the affected trees belongs to rare, endangered or protected species. The impact of this will be confined to the road alignment and thus will be local, direct, long-term

b. Impact on Wildlife, Bio-diversity and Natural Habitat

During construction more vehicles will enter in the area. Operation of these vehicles can disturb animals. Illegal hunting of animals by labor camp may also result in loss of wild animals. The anticipated impacts will be of medium significance, locally confined and long-term.

c. Impact on forest resources due to Source of Energy/Fuel

Construction Crew/Contractor will use forest resources within vicinity by illegally collecting firewood for cooking and heating purpose, and for construction. This is an adverse impact of short-term duration, local in scale and low in significance.



(iii) Chemical Impacts

a. Impact due to Improper storage/handling and distribution of Bitumen Bitumen which is used to seal the gravel is highly combustible if fire catches it. So accidental spillage or leakage of bitumen and exposure of bitumen to the fire will bring life threatening impact if not properly cared during heating. Moreover, it also bring adverse impact to human health as it can causes skin burning if not properly handled, distributed during construction period etc. It also causes water pollution. Labor can also use water for bathing and washing and discharge wastewater in nearby water bodies. The impact will be indirect, high significance, local and short-term.

b. Impact due to Accidental leakage of Fossil Fuel, Lubricants, Oil, Acids and other Chemicals used in Vehicle, Crusher Plants, Equipment etc.

During construction period, large number of vehicles, crusher plants and several other equipment will be operating in the field. Due to significant number of vehicles, there is likely of accidental leakage of fossil fuel, lubricants, oil, acid and other chemical used in vehicles, crusher plants, and equipment if all these are not properly maintained and repaired from time to time. It could bring malefic effects to the environment. If it is exposed to the human being, aquatic animal, it even brings carcinogenic effects (Cancer induced effect) to the human being. The impact will be direct, high significance, local and short-term.

(iv) Impact on the Social, Economic and Cultural Environment

a. Impacts due to Loss of Cultivated or Other Land Land acquisition will affect a number of people, as 23.29 ha of cultivable land has to be acquired in order to maintain the planned average road formation with of 4.5 m. At present it is not anticipated that GoN will acquire an additional corridor beyond this width. Accordingly, the foreseen social and agricultural impact due to upgrading works will be small in scale. The converting of the 23.29 ha of land, not all of which will be suitable farmland, will not cause foreseeable tangible losses of food grain production among the families. Proper land survey and compensation measures will be put in place that will follow the regulations for due compensation for the losses.3 The impact will be on individual level, direct, low significance, site specific, and long-term in nature.

b. Impacts due to Loss of Private Properties and Infrastructures

20 residential houses with ten temporary sheds are observed to fall within corridor of impact that would need to be relocated. All compensation measures for the suffered losses being private land & property will be in line with the procedures outlined in sub-section 8.1.2 and 8.1.3 in Chapter 8 of this IEE. The impacts (immediate loss of assets) will be direct, medium significance on community level, site-specific and long-term in nature.

c. Occupational Health and Safety, STDs

During construction phase, the work personnel will be exposed to various health risks and hazards. The hazards will be notable due to injuries to workers while working in the construction without adequate safety measures and equipment. Typical health hazards will be encountered during rock cutting, slope cutting, handling of hazardous material, machinery movement, bitumen works, side casting, tree felling, slope stabilization etc. Other potential impacts to health are respiratory and eye disease due to exposure to dust and emissions.

Health risk are commonly associated with poor labour camp conditions Unsafe water sources and unhygienic conditions (lack of latrines and washing facilities) bear the risk of additional and often endemic diseases, such as dysentery, diarrhoea and cholera. Uncontrolled water logging and badly managed borrows pits bear the risks of spreading

3 Reference is made to the governmental procedures outlined in Chapter 8.3.4 and Table 8.1



water-borne diseases like malaria and dengue fever. Increase in STDs (HIV/AIDS), caused among others by the influx of outside and migrant labourers might pose health risks for the public. Inadequate living space and harassment may increase stress conditions for labourers, especially those who are recruited from outside the local communities. In the absence of stringent health & safety regulations and regular training through the Contractor, the identified impacts will be, with exception of HIV/AIDS, direct, high significance, local and short-term in nature.

However, the impact due to long term diseases like HIV/AIDS will persist in the Project Area and even spread to the regional level even after the completion of construction works and returning of outside construction workforce. This impact will be direct, low significance, short-term and local in nature.

d. Pressure on Social Service Facilities

Influx of large numbers of construction crew will exert pressure on existing local social service facilities such as telephone, water supply, solid waste management, health and medicine, transportation and school (if they come with family) etc .This impact will be indirect, low significance, short-term and local in nature.

e. Crime and Security and Conflicts due to Influx of Construction Workers

The amount of money that enters into the area during construction phase as wage payment may induce local inflation. Increased income of local labours and construction crews of contractor can lead to negative impacts such as spread of alcohol consumption, gambling and prostitutions. Influx of migrant workers also bears potential dangers of increasing criminal activities, girl and boy trafficking, as well as HIV/AIDS as mentioned before. However, the impact due to change in habit factors like alcohol consumption, gambling etc and impact due to long term diseases like HIV/AIDS will be persisted in the Project Area and even spread to the regional level even after the completion of construction works and returning of outside construction workforce. These impacts will be direct, low significance, local, and short-term in nature.

4.2.2. Operation Stage (i) Impacts on the Physical Environment

a. Impacts due to Slope Instability and Poor Slope Management During operation phase, the hill slope along the road alignment and nearby areas may be destabilized due to road cutting, inadequate drainage works, faulty construction, de-vegetation of the area, and unsuitable disposal of spoil. The destabilization of slope may also be expedited due to human activities in the road neighbourhood such as quarrying stones or soil, animal grazing and irrigated cultivation. This may cause damage to road. The impact due to this will be direct, local and long term in nature with medium significant. b. Impacts on Water Resources caused by Poor Drainage

Poor maintenance of drainage structures, especially after heavy rainfall and landslides, will lead to drainage problems, water logging, and erosion. Apart from road damage, slope failures may occur that cause more severe problems to the local environs. Once proper maintenance schedules and local communities involvement is secured, it will be unlikely that there will be major adverse impact on both the terrestrial and the aquatic environment.

c. Air and Noise Pollution Operation of vehicles in roads in the operation phase can cause air and noise pollution. As the density of vehicles in the road is not expected to be high the impact due to noise and air pollution from vehicles will be low initially. However, the noise of horns arising from vehicles can be a nuisance at the sensitive spots like schools and hospitals. This will not be a serious



problem as; such places can be designated as „no horn region. The impact due to this will be direct, local and long term in nature with medium significant.

(ii) Impacts on the Biological Environment

a. Impacts on Forest Resources

The pressure on forest and forest resources during operation phase will result indirectly from the improved pubic/vehicular access to forest lands. Undesired cumulative and induced impacts may include accelerated logging, illegal extraction of timber and other forest products, incidental forest fires, and the introduction of invasive species (weeds, pests). These impacts will be of medium significance, locally confined, medium in magnitude and long term in nature

b. Wildlife Disturbance and Poaching

Fast vehicular movement (especially during night time) and excessive use of horn in forest and other habitats may disturb wildlife, with far-reaching consequences such as species disappearance and reduction of populations below sustainable numbers. Typical road-associated impacts are collision with wildlife, particularly birds, and easy access for those practicing illegal activities like poaching and trading of wildlife. These impacts will be of medium significance, locally confined, medium in magnitude and long term in nature

c. Pollution of Water Sources

Inappropriate driver practices connected with car/truck washing in streams and rivers has the potential to cause local water pollution by leakage of fuel, lubricants and hydrocarbons that may not only affect the aesthetic value of the water body, but also put hazards on people and animals using these as drinking sources. Continual water pollution will also affect the aquatic biota, with subsequent negative consequences for fisheries and the economic return of fisher folk depending on these natural resources. It is assumed, with appropriate control and enforcement measures at hand, that such impact on aquatic systems and biota along the road will be of low significance and locally confined.

(iii) Impact on the Social, Economic and Cultural Environment

a. Population Pressure and Impact due to New Settlement along the Road Alignment Ribbon development, i.e. the establishment of settlements, shops and food stalls along the road-side soon after construction of road is common feature in Nepal. The existing trend is to settle along the road for economic opportunities. Apart from conventional convenience, increases in land value adjoining road and land speculation are important drivers for such undesired and uncontrolled development. Negative consequences of ribbon settlements are: encroachment of right of way, road blockage, delays in private and public transports, increase of local accidents, and hindrance for maintenance works, undesired landscape aesthetics, and reduction of the overall road capacity. RoW encroachment can cause medium significant local and long-term adverse impacts.

b. Social Conflicts There are a number of road-induced impacts that have the potential to exert pressure on the local communities and cause potential social conflicts. Improved road accessibility and connectivity can, for example, trigger or increase illegal activities such as smuggling of drugs, girls/boys trafficking, alcohol consume, gambling and prostitution. Businessmen from other places may come and displace the poor farmers and people of the area. Increase in population in the area can induce pressure on existing social services and infrastructures. Such impacts may lead to social conflict situations with varying severity and duration. The likely impacts may therefore be indirect, medium significance, local and long-term in nature. c. Road Accidents



Construction and operation of roads also increase chances of road accidents, particularly involving children. Inadequate provisions of road safety measures such as road safety signals, lack of enforcement of traffic rules, houses built adjoining road within the RoW, school adjacent to road etc. during operation period may invite accidents. This is an impact of local level, medium magnitude and long term in duration

4.3. Matrix for Environmental Impact

Table 4.3.1: Beneficial Impact

Aspect Impacts Nature Magnitude Extent Duration Rating Construction Stage Socioeconomic

Employment Generation and Increase in Income

Direct H 60 L 20 St 05 VS 85

Enterprise Development and Business Promotion

Direct M 20 L 20 Lt 20 SG 60

Skill Enhancement Indirect M 20 L 20 Lt 20 SG 60

Awareness on Resource Management Indirect M 20 L 20 Lt 20 SG 60

Vulnerable community development Indirect M 20 L 20 Lt 20 SG 60

Operation Phase

Socioeconomic

Increase in land value Indirect M 20 L 20 Lt 20 VS 80

Enhancement of Community Development Service

Indirect M 20 L 20 Lt 20 SG 60

Improvement in accessibility, saving of time and transportation cost

Direct H 60 R 60 Lt 20 VS 140

Women empowerment Indirect M 20 L 20 Lt 20 SG 60

Increase in productivity Indirect M 20 R 60 Lt 20 VS 100

Table 4.3.2: Adverse Impact Aspect Impacts Nature Magnitude Extent Duration Rating

Construction stage

Physical

Operation of Quarry Sites Direct L 10 Ss 20 Lt 20 SG 50

Slope Instability Direct M 20 Ss 10 Lt 10 SG 50

Air, Dust and Noise and water Pollution Direct M 20 L 20 Lt 20 SG 60

Changes on Water Resources by Inadequate Drainage

Direct H 60 Ss 10

Lt 20 VS 90

Stockpiling of Construction Material L 10 L 20 St 05 ISG 35

Impairment in land scape due to access Road Opening by the Proposed Road Upgraded Stretch

Direct H 60 L 20 Lt 20 VS 100

Risk to human health due to lack of awareness on safety of Labor Forces Involved in Road Works especially in Risk Prone Ones – Quarry, Rock Break Up Works

Direct H 60

L 20

St 05

VS85

Impairment in existing environmental condition by establishment and Operation of Crusher Plants

Direct L 10 L 20 St 05 ISG 35

Impact due to vibration of equipment used in road construction activities like pavement rolling machine

Direct M 20 Ss 10 St 05 ISG 35

Impact due to spoil disposal Direct M 20 Ss 10 Mt 10 ISG 40

Chemical Impact due to Improper storage/handling and distribution of Bitumen

Indirect H 60 L 20 St 05 VS 85

Impact due to Accidental leakage of Fossil Fuel, Lubricants, Oil, Acids and other Chemicals used in Vehicle, Crusher Plants, Equipment etc.

Indirect H 60 L 20 St 05

VS 85



Aspect Impacts Nature Magnitude Extent Duration Rating

Biological Impact on vegetation and forest resources

Direct M 20 L 20 Lt 20 SG 60

Impact on Wildlife, Bio-diversity and Natural Habitat

Indirect L 10 L 20 Lt 20 SG 50

Impact on forest resources due to Source of Energy/Fuel

Indirect M 20 L20 Lt 20 SG 60

Socio-economic, cultural

Impacts due to Loss of Cultivated or Other Land

Direct H 60 Ss 10 Lt 20 VSG

85

Impacts due to Loss of Private Properties and Infrastructures

Direct M 20 Ss 10 Lt 20 SG 50

Occupational Health, Safety and Sanitation

Direct L 10 L 20 St 05 ISG 35

Pressure on social service facilities by

the huge mass of labour

Direct L 10 Ss 10 Lt 20 ISG 40

Social Conflict due to influx of labour Direct L 10 Ss 10 Lt 20 ISG 40

Operation stage

Physical Slope Instability Direct M 20 L 20 Lt 20 SG 60

Air and Noise Pollution Direct L 10 L 20 Lt 20 SG 50

Impact on Water resources Indirect M 20 L 20 Lt 20 SG 60

Biological 0 Impact on Forest Resources Indirect M 20 L 20 Lt 20 SG 60

Increase in poaching and illegal trafficking

Indirect L 10 L 20 Lt 20 SG 50

Pollution of Water Sources

Indirect M20 L20 Lt 20 SG 60

Socioeconomic Road Accidents Direct M 20 L 20 Lt 20 SG 60

Population Pressure and Impact due to New Settlement along the Road Alignment

Indirect M 20 L 20 Lt 20 SG 60

Social Conflict Indirect M 20 L 20 Lt 20 SG 60

Note: Legend: Magnitude- L= Low; M= Medium; H= High; Extent- L= Local; R= Regional, Ss= Site Specific

Duration- Lt= Long term; Mt= Medium Term; St= Short Term

Type Criteria Impact Symbol Rating

Hard to Mitigate or high positive effect High H 60

Magnitude Mitigate with some precaution or medium positive effect

Moderate M 20

Easily mitigate or low positive effect Low L 10

Within NP/VDC Regional R 60

Extent Within Project Ward Local L 20

Within Project Site Site Specific Ss 10

> 5 years Long Term Lt 20

Duration 1 to 5 years Medium Term Mt 10

< 1 years Short Term St 05

Nature of Impact: D = Direct / IN = Indirect Significance of Impact:

Total Score Significance Symbol

> 75 High Significant VS

50 – 75 Medium Significant SG

< 50 Lo w significant ISG

4.3 Respect to Initial Environmental Examination

As a respect to the spirit of Initial Environmental Examination, environmental safeguards of suitable nature to over come foreseen adverse impact needs to be affected. As its enforcement, it needs to:



4.3.1 Practicing Environmental Management Plan Pro-forma prior to Undertaking Proposed Road Upgrading

Prior to undertaking activities of proposed road upgrading, contractor need to fill in as 'kick off' environmental management plan pro-forma on work / activity basis to begin with, submit it to Resident Engineer and secure his approval. These plans have been developed primarily to safeguards environment to the best possible, and include issues as enlisted below:

Labor force Campsite Establishment, Management and Decommission Plan (Environment Format 01)

Contractor's Office, Workshop Camp Establishment, Management and Decommission Plan (Environment Format 02)

Public Utilities / Existing Services Reinstatement Plan (Environment Format 03)

Quarry and Borrow pit Operation Plan

(Field Identification, Extraction and Safe Closure) (Environment Format 04)

Surplus Earth Materials Safe Disposal Plan (Environment Format 05)

Road Support Structure Plan (Retaining Wall, Breast Wall, Toe Wall) (Environment Format 06)

Drainage Structure Installation Plan (Environment Format 07)

Crusher Plant Operation Plan (Site Identification, Plant Installation, Operation and Decommission) (Environment Format 08)

Bitumen Storage, Blending and Decommission Plan (Environment Format 09)

Embankment Structure Installation Plan (Environment Format 10)

Materials Stock pile Plan (Environment Format 11)

Road Diversion Plan (Environment Format 12)

4.3.2 Practicing and Sticking to Agreements Pro-forma related to Environmental Management Plan Pro-forma

As a supplement to practicing any of environment management plan pro-forma enlisted above as relevant, Agreement pro-forma related to it, also needs to be 'inked up' with the concerned party, and submitted along with the plan to Resident Engineer. These agreements pro-forma have been developed primarily to safeguards interest of local stakeholders to the best possible, and include issues as enlisted below:

Agreement related to camp site hire needs for labor forces' use

Agreement related to supplies of fire wood needs to labor force

Agreement related to extraction / supplies of rocks, boulder, gravel etc

Agreement related to granting permission for excess materials disposal

Agreement related to production / stockpile of CRRM, chips fines essential for road upgrading

Agreement related to safe storage of bitumen

Agreement between the Supplier and Buyer for the Sale and Purchase of Crusher Plant Materials

Approval / Permission( by the Resident Engineer): Granted to both the Supplier and Buyer for the Sale and Purchase of Crusher Plant Materials



5 Alternative Analysis

As the aim of road is to follow the same alignment that exist as fair weather road at present and upgrade it into sealed bituminous alignment, any issues regarding the alternative alignment is not of concern requiring no alternative analysis while updating the existing “feasibility report 2006”. However, project aims at identifying the key environmental issues and implementation of the mitigation measures to minimise the unfavourable environmental issues where necessary.

5.1 Design and Construction Approach

There are two types of road design and construction methods. They are conventional and green road approach. In conventional method, heavy machineries and equipment, explosives, heavy concrete structures with the application of bituminous surfacing, side drains, bridges and culverts etc. are extensively involved. Green road approach which is normally referred as a labour based, environmental friendly and participatory (LEP) focuses to conserve the delicate mountain ecology through the protection of vegetation cover as means of soil conservation. Under this approach, construction work is done manually from the local labour without using heavy machinery and explosives. Under green road approach, majority of the work will be performed manually. The proposed road has been designed considering conventional approach with labour based to some extent. Due to this, Local people will be benefited by availability to work in the project and earning from it.

5.2 Project Site (Route)

As the alignment of the Sitalpati – Musikot Road was finalized and constructed long time back and exist as earthen road at present, the analysis relating to alternate route with the consideration of environment, construction cost, serviceability etc. is not relevant. However, it is understood that the alignment has been made after thorough investigation in terms of geology, hydrology, socio-economic and topographic aspects. This alternative is therefore not relevant.

5.3 Time Schedule

During the rainy season, the construction work is stopped to allow the natural compaction of the road. Rehabilitation and construction work will be carried out during the remaining months. The construction period is more appropriate from October to June as the local people are more or less.

5.4 Raw Materials (Resources) to be used

The raw material to be used are boulders (stones) for gabion and dry walls gabion wires, aggregates of different sizes for sub-base, base course, surface dressing and concreting. Other local resources will be sand retrieved from local river beds and banks. Moreover, Reinforcement bars and cement will also be used in construction activities. The proposed construction will emphasizes the use of local materials as far as possible.Alternatives to the selected materials will not be considered.

5.5 Other (No Action Option)

If the proposal is not implemented, the people have to face the difficulties in access to the district headquarter and market thus resulting into low level of productivity and prevalence of poverty during wet season and the condition of existing road proposed for upgrading will further deteriorate throughout the year. Similarly, cost for upgrading will become much



higher later with increased deterioration of road, ultimately requiring new construction.Since the adverse impact is of minimal nature in this road, the alternative is regarded as not viable.

5.5.1 Proposal Alternatives for Transportation

As the Dor is already intended to carry out the upgrading work of the existing earthen road of Sitalpati-Musikot, other issues relating to alternative means of transportation like ropeway, trails, railway, ropeways will be irrelevant at present time. Air connection is also available in Musikot, district headquarter of Rukum at present but it is expensive and out of reach of poor people and not appropriate for serving bulk transportation of good to local market. Considering the project alternatives, the proposed upgrading works of the existing road can be the best option to serve the purpose of transportation requirement.



6 Measures to Reduce or Control the Impact of the Implementation of the Project on the Environment (Mitigation Measures)

Impacts from the proposed road projects can be both beneficial as well as adverse. An effective implementation of benefit maximization measures and adverse impacts mitigation measures would optimize the benefits expected from the project and avoid/minimize the adverse impact from the project. Based on the impact assessment and identification, beneficial augmentation and adverse impact mitigation measures are presented below.

6.1 Mitigation Measures During Design Phase

The mitigation measures adopted during design or pre-construction phases are of preventive in nature with two basic objectives: (i) avoiding costly mitigation, and (ii) increasing awareness among the stakeholders for environment protection while constructing and operating infrastructure services.

6.1.1 Route Selection

As the upgrading work will be carried out in already existed road, there will be no new route selection despite little minimum deviation as necessitated by the Road design standards.

6.1.2 Detailed Survey and Design

The road design will be according to the detail survey and design and will follow the norms of the Feeder Road Standards developed by DoR. However, the road design needs to adopt measures – augment and mitigation – presented below:

ensure alignment away from the sensitive areas - recurrent including live slides, protected areas e.g. national parks, wildlife reserves etc

safe and stable quarries, borrow-pits and stockpiles sites, and being located well away from the settlements, cultivated land and unstable area ,

emissions, dust, noise caused by road works to a minimal.

accident risks avoided to the extent possible

ensure uncertainties not prevailed among locals on land acquisition in future

ensure locals' attempt for fraudulent compensation avoided by careful assessment of genuine acquisition

ensure damage to public utilities to a minimal: drinking water, irrigation canals etc

respect cultural heritage to the fullest extent possible

ensure displacement of public buildings to a minimal

6.1.3 Land and Property Acquisition and Compensation

At the earliest time possible with respect to commencing works, all project- affected households/landowners will be screened against the entitlement matrix forwarded by the official Committee for determining the compensation.

A thorough following of the procedures, public consultation and notices will be ensured to avoid insecurities among the local people and raising mounts of claims. In this respect, the Project will also establish a Grievance Office to facilitate grievance resolution mechanisms as described in the sectoral Environmental and Social Management Framework of DoR.

The compensation process will meticulously follow the procedural steps outlined in Table 8.1 of this document. Being a governmental agency the Proponent will assist to form



Compensation Fixation Committee (CFC) under the Chairmanship of Chief District Officer. The Chief of District Land Revenue Office, a Local Development Officer from DDC, and other necessary representatives will be members in the CFC. The Committee will decide the rates applicable for compensating different types of houses, land, trees and crops in accordance to established market rates. Notice will be published and information dissemination to local affected peoples (APs) will be carried out by the Proponent, in coordination with Local Consultative Forum (LCF) formed under participation of Local Stakeholders of the Project affected areas and NGOs.

6.2 Mitigation Measures During Construction Phase

6.2.1 Benefit Augmentation Measures

(1) Construction Stage

a. Employment Opportunities to Increase in Local Incomes and to Combat Poverty – Realizing the VDCP During the road construction and rehabilitation, large number of local people will work as labourer giving more emphasis to women (at least 40%), ethnic minority and dalit (occupational caste). They will get direct employment and it will contribute significantly in their livelihood. This will also increase their economy and keep them occupied in earning and skill learning job during agricultural lean season. In this context, benefit augmentation measures will be implemented as much as possible through NGOs/CBOs. They will be given training to do the job. To utilize their money earned from the project works, RSDP will implement income generation activities to improve their livelihood. These programmes will generate multiplier effect in the local economy and support significantly to uplift the socioeconomic condition of the local people particularly poor, dalit, ethnic minority and women. b. Promotion of Enterprise Development and Commercialization

During construction period, different types of commercial activities like teashops, groceries, lodges etc will come into operation in order to meet the demand of construction crews. Demand for local products like pulses, milk, meat, vegetables increases thus promoting local rural economy. The benefit from increased demand of goods and services can be enhanced by promoting use of local resources as much as possible. The project will contribute in this aspect by providing the opportunities for the local entrepreneurs for supplying the goods and services required for the project as far as practicable.

c. Enhancement of Technical Skills During the road construction and rehabilitation work, labors will be given training inroad construction, soft engineering structures and bioengineering works. They will also be given on-the-job training for beneficial augmentation measures. This will help them to find job as skilled worker in other future projects as an alternative occupation in addition to agriculture. On other part,the skill training will be carried out by those NGOs/CBOs who mobilise the local communities for the arrangement of employment opportunities in the Project. The community training programs will particularly focus on skill development among women and vulnerable groups in the local communities. d. Women Empowerment As the road construction activities needs an employment of large masses of local people. The employment emphasis is given to the women as a part of benefit augmentation measure imparted by the road project



(2) Operation Stage a. Enhancement of community development services Due to increase in employment opportunities, trade, business and agricultural income, considerable amount of money may be channeled into the local economy which will increase the income level of the individual household and the local community of the area. Promotion of community development activities such as education, school, health and sanitation services will be supported and linkage with social infrastructure services will be developed. b. Access to inputs and services Once the road is in operation, people would have cheaper and improved access to many inputs such as seeds, chemical fertilizer and technology leading to increased agricultural production and diversification. The transportation cost is expected to come down heavily for many of the inputs that are used by farmers in the farm and other goods. Agricultural support services will be improved for the increased income from the farm products. c. Increased crop productivity and sale of farm products Sale of farm and livestock products will be increased in the settlements along the road corridor. Farmers will be more interested to increase agricultural production due to market accessibility. For this, market linkages will be developed. d. Development of market centers There is a possibility of growth and extension of the minor local markets along the road like in Jhuleneta, Kharibot Bazar area. Sewerage and other basic facilities will be supported in the market centers. e. Reaping the Benefits of Increased Land Value The construction of road leads to appreciation of land values particularly near the market and settlement areas. There will be rapid increase in the commercial production of agricultural crops due to road accessibility which is also a major factor to raise the land value. This activity would likely uplift the economic condition of the local people on one side. On other side, businessman offer attractive price to the local poor people and lure them to sell their land. To protect the rights of poor people, the project will assist to form cooperative among the local farmers and implement some small cottage industries or collective agriculture practice. If the local farmers find themselves economically stable, they may not sell their land. Once they sell their land, the local people generally will be displaced from the area.Benefit enhancement measures will be promotion of land development activities and control of encroachment within RoW.

6.2.2 Adverse Impacts Mitigation Measures

(1) Construction Stage

(i) Physical Environment

a. Adopt and Follow the Environmental Code of Practice and Engineering Manuals provided by DoR

Lessons learned from other projects (including RMDP) demonstrate that the prime reason for failure to implement mitigation measures in road construction works in Nepal is linked to the fact that the protective and mitigative measures are not fully incorporated in the Contracts, and that in most cases are not fully understood by the contractors. Generally, contractors have the behaviour to ignore the prescribed safeguard measures and only will comply if payment is withheld. It therefore needs to be ensured and supervised that the mitigation measures will be duly reflected in the Specifications and contractors are willing as well as bound to comply with. It is therefore mandatory that:



the Project Team, the supervision engineers and the contractors shall receive copies of the Environmental and Social Management Framework (ESMF).

the contractors fully understand the environmental and social safeguard measures outlined in the ESMF and reflected in single clauses in the Works Contract

the contractors adhere to the prescribed Environmental Code of Practice that are outlined in the ESMF.

The Project, supervising engineers, contractors and the locally contracted NGOs/CBOs adhere to the principles and technical recommendations that are provided in the „DoR Roadside Bio-engineering Reference Manual and Site Handbook, 2002‟

The contractors and supervision engineers are provided orientation training on environmental safeguard measures during construction period.

b. Disposal of Spoils

Spoil generated will be safely disposed and managed with minimum environmental damages. The Proponent will use environment friendly techniques for construction, such as balanced cut and fills, re-use of excavated materials etc., and aim for minimum quantity of earthworks. The following mitigation measures will be adopted:

Wherever possible, surplus spoils will be used to fill eroded gullies, closing of quarries and borrow pits, depressed areas etc

Excavated materials will be used for reclaiming the degraded land in near vicinity in consultation with local communities,

Spoil will not be disposed on fragile slopes, flood ways, wetland, farmland, forest areas, natural drainage path, religious and culturally sensitive sites, or disrupting canals and other infrastructures, foot trails etc,

Spoil will not be disposed on areas, that will create inconvenience to the local community or it will deprive the livelihood of people,

Spoil disposed will be appropriately managed with optimum compaction by making layers of preferably 15 cm so that they will not settle later,

After the disposal, the site will be provided with proper drainage,

Adequate protection against erosion will be achieved by active re-vegetation with plants selected from the „DoR Roadside Bio-engineering Reference Manual and Site Handbook, 2002‟ to ensure that the right plants are being used.

c. Slope Cutting, Prevention of Instability and Soil Erosion

Specific precautionary and mitigation measures will address:

Minimise cut slope activities in design as much possible,

Minimise the use of explosives, give preference to rock cutting and breaking of boulders through chiselling and hammering. In case of use of explosives, all procedures need to be strictly follow the legal provisions outlined in Chapter 8.3.1 (Explosive Material Act, 1961).

Select cut and fill slope at correct angle depending upon the soil type,

Re-vegetate cut and fill slope or exposed area as soon as possible by using species that are recommended in the „DoR Roadside Bio-engineering Reference Manual and Site Handbook, 2002‟.

Adopt, wherever possible, bio-engineering techniques (combination of vegetative and civil engineering structural measures) in accord with the mentioned Manual,

Ensure minimum damage of vegetation during construction,

Do not undertake major earthworks during rainy season,

Pay special attention to clear any blockages on the side and cross drains, and



Construct lined chutes to dispose road-side drain water without damaging or causing erosion of downhill agriculture land. (Only Reviewed)

d. Quarrying and Establishment of Stockpile Yards

The mitigation measures to be adopted against the impacts of quarrying to be adopted by the proponent will be:

Selected sites shall not result in slope instability, erosion, disruption of natural drainages, river bank cutting, destruction of vegetation, damage of farmland, and other physical resources. If during start of activities any of these effects appear in a scale that would justify environmental concerns, the site needs to be abandoned and alternatives will be sought.

Appropriate environmental measures, such as protection of water quality, farm land, communities‟ infrastructures, forest and others, during extraction will be adopted, and

After the completion of extraction, the site will be rehabilitated to suit the local landscape.

e. Disruption of Water Resources Related Infrastructures Despite the careful planning and survey, various community infrastructures being water taps, pipes and irrigation channels are likely to be affected by the construction activities. In order to avoid such impacts, severance and crop production losses, the following mitigation measures will be adopted:

Avoid contamination of water resources systems during construction by employing specific/additional precautionary while working at such sites, e.g. intensified monitoring, sealing off work sites and introduction of waste-water collectors to prevent spillage into irrigation canals and ponds, safe disposal of waste waters and other liquids in secure distance to the public water sources and irrigation channels

The sources of water used for irrigation will be maintained as in original state, if damaged during road construction.

In case of damage the contractor must be obliged to immediate corrective actions, i.e. to restore/reinstate all disturbed infrastructures related to water supply instantly to the condition before disturbance or improve where appropriate In such cases, close supervision and stringent enforcement of timely and adequate corrective measures will be pursued in close consultation with people and based on photographic evidence taken during the initial survey.

f. Drainage and Cross Drainage Works

Any road located in regions that are subject to periodic rains may create occasionally large quantities of concentrated surface runoff. These storm waters and runoffs from the road bear the risk for local erosion and, subsequently, for landslide eventually affecting the stability of road itself. In order to avoid such impacts, the following mitigation measures will be adopted:

Avoid road-side drain water to be discharged into farmland or environmentally sensitive locations. In order to prevent damages in downstream areas, construct additional drainage channels as needed.

Do not divert water away from natural water-course unless it is absolutely necessary. In such cases, provisions must be included to allow by-pass for migrating fish.

Avoid any blockage or diversion of natural channels due to (intended or incidental) disposal of spoil.

g. Control of Noise, Air and Water Pollution



Noise Pollution The following mitigation measures will be adopted to minimize the noise pollution:

Prohibition of using pressure horn by vehicles and equipment near the settlement and wildlife habitat areas

Use of silencer in vehicles and crushing plants

Establishment of crusher plant, batching plant etc. in area away from settlement, school and sensitive ecological areas.

Provision of wearing ear muffles during working in noisy areas.

Air Pollution Generation and spread of dust and exhaust from automobile and equipments are the cause of deterioration of air quality during construction works. The generation of dusts and spread is mainly caused from the construction activities and movement of vehicles and equipment as well as operation of crusher plant and transportation of construction materials. The mitigation measures to be adopted by the Proponent will include following:

Prohibition of open storage and spillage of loose soil in and around construction site

Covering of the stock piled spoil with an erosion control materials

Covering of truck loads of material during transportation

Sprinkling of water on working areas and road if dust pollution becomes nuisance

Use of good quality of fuel

Location of crusher plant away from settlement, school and sensitive ecological areas and they are fitted with air and noise control devices.

Water Pollution

The Proponent will adopt the following mitigation measures in order to minimize the impact on surface water quality:

Disposal of soil, sludge, and other wastes directly into water bodies will be avoided

Prohibition of activities like washings – cloth, dish etc near water bodies causing water bodies pollution, risking down stream users

Prevention of soil slippage at toe of the stockpile areas by installing barriers at the perimeter

Prohibition of urination and defecation in open areas and water bodies by construction workers with the installation of sanitation facilities.

h. Stockpiling of Constructions materials The construction material storage is main issues for the contractor during the construction period for two purposes; for getting rid of foreign objects that can mix with the construction material and make it unsuitable for construction activities and for addressing the health issues raised by the local stakeholder. So following mitigation measures are applied.

The land for storing the construction material should be far from the agriculture land and water bodies.

As a procedural respect, concerned contractor need to fill in standard pro-forma – developed for this issue – and submit it to and secure approval from the Resident Engineer (including from the owner as and if required).

The permission from the local stakeholder should be taken before commencing the stockpiling of the construction material



Construction material should be covered with tarpaulin during stockpiling to prevent from rain water and dust emission generated from the stockpiling site. it should be encircled with side barriers and covered when incidence of mix up with deleterious materials is imminent.

Stockpiles will be kept wet by sprinkling water or covered so that erosion by wind causing dust will not occur

The costs for stockpiling of construction materials are inclusive in construction contract

i. Establishment, Operation and Closure of Crusher Plant The establishment, operation and closure of crusher plant could be issue for generating the dust and noise pollution during the construction period. So to minimize the effect of this, following mitigation measures are adopted.

Sitting of crusher plants should be done as much away from the residential areas.

Jaw of the crusher can be installed in a sound proof area without disturbing to the material feeding.

Apply, seek and secure approval from SC prior to establishing and operating plants

Identify owner of plants site - local people, Municipality, DDC or VDC as appropriate.

Strike an agreement with the local stakeholders - local people, Municipality, DDC or VDC as appropriate.

Fit and operate Stone crushing equipment with dust control devices and operated as per Manufacturer‟s Specification.

j. Impact due to Spoil Disposal Spoils should be safely disposed and managed with minimum environmental damage. The following mitigation measures will be adopted:

Wherever possible, surplus spoil will be used to fill eroded gullies, quarries and borrow pits, depressed areas etc.

Contractor must identify and select suitable and safest locations for the dumping or land fill sites with sufficient capacity and approvals should be obtained from relevant Local Authorities

Excess spoils will be disposed in specified tipping sites in a controlled manner.

Spoils should not be disposed on fragile slopes, farmland, marshy land, forest areas, natural drainage path, canals and other infrastructures.

After the disposal, the site will be provided with proper drainage, vegetation and adequate protection against erosion.

Proper engineering design (including drainage and erosion control facilities) should be prepared by the contractor and written approval should be obtained from the local communities prior to dumping at the each identified site. Provisions of toe walls and retaining walls would protect the disposal of soil.

Adequate protection against erosion will be achieved by active re-vegetation with plants selected from the „DoR Roadside Bio-engineering Reference Manual and Site Handbook, 2002‟ to ensure that the right plants are being used.

As a procedural respect, concerned contractor need to fill in standard pro-forma – developed for this issue and submit it to and secure approval from the Resident Engineer (including from the owner as and if required).The costs for excess materials disposal are inclusive in construction contract.

k. Cut and Fill activities Following mitigation measures are applied.



Ensuring minimum cut slope

Selecting cut and fill slope at correct angle depending upon the soil type

Re-vegetation of cut and fill slope or exposed areas as soon as possible by using native plant species

Adoption of bio-engineering techniques

Ensuring minimum damage of vegetation during construction

No construction work during rainy season

l. Impairment in landscape due to access road opening by the contractor It has seen that along the road construction, other side road also open due to unnecessary demand of stakeholder and exerted pressure on the contractor and also opening raod for location of quarry site. Due to the reason, impairment in landscape occur, Following mitigation measures are applied for this.

The unnecessary demand from local stakeholder for opening of access road must be avoided.

If such road is important to open, then the IEE study should be carried out.

m. Work on Quarry, rock break up etc (Gravity of Risk). During road construction activities, several works such as work on quarry and rock break up etc has to be done which if not properly handled, it can be life threatening to the labour working on that activities. For this, following mitigation measures have to be applied.

The safety gadgets should be provided for the labour during construction work

The labour should pay fine from his payment if they are not wearing the safety gadget during work

Awareness training must be provided them for awareness on safety measures.

Vibration Impact from Equipment like pavement rolling machine

Several impact has been from vibration effect induced by the equipment like crack developed on the either side of the equipment, noise disturbance annoying the local people etc. It can be reason of social disputes sometimes which can hamper the construction activities too. To mitigate all these impacts, following mitigation measures are applied.

The safety gadgets should be provided for the labour during construction work

The labour should pay fine from his payment if they are not wearing the safety gadget during work

Awareness training must be provided them for awareness on safety measures.

(ii) Biological Environment

a. Compensatory Plantation for Removed Trees

During construction period, 15 trees will be subject to removal. The loss cannot be minimized, but it can be compensated by planting trees. Compensatory plantation will be in the ratio of 1:25, i.e., a total of will be planted in the Project Area and looked after for five years by involving local people. The compensatory plantation will be alongside the road or, as directed by the DFO/local people at other areas in the road influence area. The saplings will originate from local nurseries to be established in the Project Area. Suitable species of tree will be selected for re-plantation as per recommendation of the DFO.

b. Avoiding Disturbance of Wildlife Habitats



Road construction may cause the loss of habitat and interruption in wildlife movement path. There may occur illegal hunting during construction period by building group members and project staff. The following mitigation measures will be adopted:

The construction activities near forest area and areas identified as habitat of wildlife and

birds will be appropriately managed so that there will be least disturbance to the wildlife

and birds.

Carry out raising awareness training to both labourers and local people about the importance of wildlife through NGOs/CBOs

Posting of display boards generating awareness on wildlife protection

Restriction to work during night time

Restriction to wildlife harassment by the workers

All these provisions will be included in the contract specifications. (Review and updated)

c. Control of Illegal Hunting and Wildlife Trade Following mitigation measures are applied for control of illegal hunting and wildlife trade

Illegal hunting and fishing during construction period by the involved construction workforce and project staff will be strictly controlled.

Depending on the local conditions and logistic constraints, meat and fish for contractor‟s workforce should be supplied by the contractor by purchasing them from larger markets in the region.

Trading of animal skin, horn, bones, feathers etc. will be fully controlled and supervised, and will be forwarded to enforce legal actions against offenders

d. Avoiding the Use of Forest Wood for Cooking and Heating Following mitigation measures are adopted for avoiding the use of forest wood for cooking and heating. For construction crews stationed at the camp, contractor will provide kerosene or gas for

cooking and heating. If heating of bitumen is needed for sealing gravel, kerosene will be utilised Use of forest wood will be restricted for meeting the fuel needs.

Respective provisions will be included in the contract agreement document with contractor.

(iii) Socio-economic, Cultural and Religious Environment

a. Compensation of Private Properties and Restoration of Community Infrastructures 23.29 ha of cultivable land need to be acquired for the construction of road. 20 residential houses and 20 temporary sheds fall within the formation width of the road which needs to be compensated or relocated. Moreover, ten temporary sheds presently located along the road alignment needs to be shifted. The cost required for shifting the house and sheds will be provided by the project to the affected households. Any land or property acquired for road construction will be compensated as per the procedures. Any loss on standing crop of farmer due to Project either within the formation width or ROW or any project affected areas will also be compensated. A detailed compensation plan needs to be prepared by the project during the initial stage of project construction. Despite the careful planning, a number of community infrastructures such as irrigation system, foot trails, cattle track, water supply sources and water supply pipes etc. may be disrupted during implementation of the Proposal. In order to avoid such adverse impacts due precaution will be taken by the Proponent. If necessary to dismantle, their restoration or improvement, where appropriate, will be done. Alternative diversion or facility will be provided so that the local people using such structures will not have to face hardship due to its dismantling.



b. Occupational Health, Safety and Environmental Protection Awareness Following mitigation measures are adopted for ensuring the occupational health, safety and environmental protection.

The workers will be provided with helmets, masks, muffles depending on the nature of the construction work.

Drinking water facility and temporary pit latrine will be established at construction sites to control open defecation and pollution of water bodies by the workers.

Necessary planning and safety approach will be made for rescue during emergency

The supervisor will have to check whether the provisions made in the plan are implemented according to plan.

Workers will be provided with first aid and health facilities.

There will be provision for group accidental insurance for the workers.

First aid training will be provided to field staffs like overseer, social mobilizes and supervisors.

Strict rule for non-complying safety condition such as payment withholding and/or termination of contract.

Work forces will receive instructions of using/not using natural resources that would be of communal interest, such as water, fish, locally growing wild fruits and mushrooms.

Preparation to protect from vector disease will be adopted by giving vaccination to outside labours of contractors and conducting regular health check - up.

c. HIV/AIDS and Drug Abuse Awareness Campaigns

To address severe social conflicts and far-reaching consequences for public health, the Contractor will be obliged to carry out regular awareness training for the work forces to prevent undesired interactions with the local communities relating to prostitution, the spread of sexually transmitted diseases (above all HIV/AIDS), drug abuses and increased alcohol consume leading to social conflicts, clashes and crime. The content and schedule for such awareness campaigns will be subject to specific clauses in the works contracts.

The foreseen activities are supplementary to the awareness programme to be conducted by locally operating or specifically contracted NGOs, who will, in addition, have to tackle the problem of girl & boy trafficking. It is feared that improved access and connectivity due to the road improvement works bear the potential for increasing these issues if not properly and timely addressed and local people become aware of the effects of trafficking girls and boys to an uncertain and often detrimental fate. d. Pressure on Social Service Facilities

Influx of large numbers of construction crew may exert pressure on existing local social service facilities such as telephone, water supply, solid waste management, health and medicine, transportation. If social services facilities are not adequate for the construction crew, separate facility for them will be managed by the Project so that the local population are not seriously affected. (2) Operation Stage

(i) Physical Environment

a. Slope Instability and Erosion



The impact of slope instability and erosion will be in terms of damage of agricultural land, community forests other properties as well as reduction in agricultural production. The following mitigation measures will be adopted:

Correction of maintenance of the slope protection measures and drainage works

Minor landslide and mass wasting will be immediately cleared and slope restored with appropriate technology (bioengineering)

Soil conservation activities like community forestry will be promoted in the right of way and vulnerable areas beyond the road alignment

Environmental awareness programs will be organized for local communities so that quarrying in road side hill slopes, grazing cattle on unstable areas will be controlled.

b. Proper Maintenance of Drainage Construction of road may affect natural drainage of rainwater by concentrating water flow along the road. These storm waters and runoffs from the road bear the risk for local erosion and, subsequently, for landslide eventually affecting the stability of road itself. In order to avoid such impacts, the following mitigation measures will be adopted:

Maintenance of smooth discharge across culverts and cross drainages by cleaning and maintaining them regularly so that water logging on adjacent land due to road do not occur.

Roadside drain water will not be discharged into farmland or environmentally sensitive locations.

Regular cleaning of roadside channels to avoid any blockage of drainage.

c. Air and Noise Pollution The movement of vehicles on the road will cause air and noise pollution. Similarly, runoff from road surface may cause water pollution. Following mitigation measures will be adopted

Vehicles conforming to acceptable emission standard will only be allowed

Speed limit of the vehicles Jwill be maintained near the settlements

Use of horns should be restricted near dense forest, health posts, and schools and settlement. No horn sign before school, health centres and important wildlife areas will be designed.

Plantation will be done along the right of way (RoW) near the settlements

(ii) Biological Environment

a. Induced/accelerated Logging and Depletion of Forest Resources

In country settings like Nepal, the pressure on forest resources due to accelerated logging and illegal extraction of forest resources is not uncommon, especially when improved roads give easy and direct access to forest lands. To cope with such induced impacts requires good governance, anti-corruption mechanisms, as well as willingness to provide adequate staffing arrangements and salaries for controlling such impacts.

Other proven mitigation actions relate to building up sufficient awareness among the local communities to protect the environmental resources their lives depend on. Such campaigns are recommended to carry on with further actions supplementary to the NGO/CBO campaigns during the construction phase. Apart from basic and specific environmental training programme, emphasis shall be given to

Provide awareness program to local communities for preserving specific forest products

Promote the cultivation of certain NTFPs (bamboo, medicinal herbs, ornamental plants, and mushrooms, berries) to increase income diversification and bridge food (rice) deficient periods.



Promote replacement of firewood by non-forest energy sources such as micro hydro, solar, biogas, subsidized kerosene by coordinating with agencies who deliver such technologies to rural areas in Nepal.

Promote local knowledge about invasive plant and animal species, and how to handle such problems.

b. Wildlife Collision and Disturbance

As suggested in the construction phase, these issues will be best addressed with appropriate means of speed control, installation of traffic signs indicating speed limit, patrolling in wildlife sensitive areas. Training of drivers during proper instruction shall also be made mandatory to reduce accident risks at wildlife crossings. This refers especially to the country-wide excessive use of horns. c. Pollution of Aquatic Habitats

The washing of cars in rivers and creeks should be strictly controlled (by road police and/or CBOs) and violators be penalized. In places where car washing habits have evolved, it is advised to erect signboards (illustrated and in local language) that explain the inherent risks for people utilizing the source for drinking and aquatic life, and also indicate penalties for violators.

(iii) Socio-economic Environment

a. Road safety

After the operation of road services, chances of accidents increase. In order to minimize such incidents safety measures and restriction on speed will be adopted. Required delineators, safety signs etc. will be used as appropriate along the road. Road safety awareness programs will be conducted, including the propagation of educative hand-out material in local language(s). The material shall be propagated in schools and be available at all VDCs. It is also recommended to place illustrated sign boards at accident-prone spots and bus bays.

b. Ribbon Settlement along the Road

During the operation phase of road, there are likely chances of growing ribbon settlements. This will cause congestions to road users and increase accident. The mitigation measures will be to discourage such settlements adjacent to the road, plantation of trees, and assist the local organization to plan proper settlements. Mitigation requires the combined efforts of various governmental agencies and substantial public information and awareness activities. Above all, to address the undesired and induced development alongside upgrades roads requires a fair amount of good governance, a realistic and feasible land-use plan and staff who is capable to implement such plans. In addition, enforcement mechanisms need to be in place that can carefully tackle the problem of removing encroachers while taking into full account the needs and constraints of poor people who are likely to form the bulk of encroachers.

c. Management of Social Conflict

Improved road accessibility and connectivity can, for example, trigger or increase illegal activities such as smuggling of drugs, girls/boys trafficking, alcohol consume, gambling and prostitution. Increase in population in the area can induce pressure on existent social services and infrastructures. Businessmen from other places may come and displace the poor farmers and people of the area. The Project will assist the local administration to plan proper security measures and maintain law and order situation. Mitigation requires the combined efforts of various governmental agencies and substantial public information and awareness activities. Above all, to address the undesired impacts of development requires a fair amount of good governance. The Project can support the Government on these matters by providing the information and making the local l people aware on these aspects.



7 Environmental Management Roles & Responsibility

Responsibility for environmental management associated with the proposed road upgrading involves a number of roads building parties, each with specific responsibilities for particular activities. Main parties responsible for the implementation of environmental safeguards measures prior to -, during - and following - proposed road upgrading are:

MPPW

DoR (including GESU)

World Bank

Project Design and Supervision Consultant

Contractor – construction / bio-engineering works The summary of the role and responsibility for implementing the EMP is as follows.

Table 7.1. : Role and Responsibility for implementing the EMAP

Institution Role Responsibility in the Project Remark

Ministry of Environment

Mandated to formulate and implement environmental policies, plans and programs at national level

Facilitate when needed on environmental safeguards , Review IEE and Approve IEE

-

Ministry of physical

planning work (MPPW)

It is concerned line ministry, executive agency for managing the construction and maintenance of the proposed road.

Coordinate with project on safeguard issues Conduct environmental monitoring from central level.

-

Division of Roads DOR

Department under MPPW responsible to execute RSDP projects

Ultimate responsibility for the supervision of proposed road upgrading including environmental safeguards fully respected.

-

GESU(Geo- Environment and Social

Unit)

Unit under division of road responsible for reviewing IEE

Review, comment, and forward IEE ToR and Report for review for approval to Ministry of environment

-

World Bank Role in decision making for the execution of work

Responsible for overseeing DoR's project design, implementation management in accordance with their grant / loan conditions including environmental safeguards adequately addressed, and respected it during proposed road upgrading works.

-

Design consultant

All environmental work related to feasibility and design period

Get approval from Ministry of environment. Conduct IEE Study, Public Consultation, and prepare IEE Report , Receive comments and modify accordingly. Conduct environmental safeguard monitoring and Reporting

-



Institution Role Responsibility in the Project Remark

Supervision consultant

Role in checking compliance of environmental measures in road construction work as per EMAP

oversee the overall implementation of the EMP (for overall pakage), provide expertise knowledge, suggestions and recommendations when and where necessary to minimize/avoid/prevent any adverse environmental impacts

-

Construction contractor

Role of complying environmental measures into the Road construction work

The contractor/s must implement all the mitigation measures described in the EMP during the construction period to mitigate all environmental impacts associated with the construction activities

7.1 Site Supervision, Monitoring and reporting

Site supervision, monitoring and reporting are an integral part of the EMAP. All these activities should be stringently carried out to ensure effective implementation of mitigation measures into the field level. It should be carried out prior to and during road upgrading to answer the following question. a. Is all work being done according to approved design? b. Are all mitigation measures applied into the field? c. Are all environmental issues complied by the contractor? d. Are all the implemented issues sufficient to address the environmental issues?

Site inspection and monitoring will be carried out in a transparent and credible manner by using established indicators. Standard checklists and formats to be used by the monitoring staff both for site surveys and in the subsequent reports. Monitoring activity involves quantifying the observed impacts, and to verify the nature and extent of impacts, taking photographs, parameter-tests, interaction with local, and geo-referencing the observed site/area with GPS. Table 7.2 specifies the set of verifiable indicators that will be used for monitoring in this EMAP.

Table 7.2: Monitoring Indicators Selected for this IEE

Monitored Sector Parameters Selected for Monitoring

Soils, Landslides, Erosion Waste management Sites

Number, location and extent of slope failures Cause analysis for slope failure Natural/man-made Area (ha) of land, forest and properties affected Nos and extent of gully erosions and pavement failures Nos and extent of road subsiding effects Suitability of corrective/bio-engineering measures Nos of days and nature of traffic delays due to slides Sites and suitability for safe disposal of wastes and garbage

Bio-engineering Nos and plant species selected for bio-engineering, disaggregated by protective function

Magnitude of local seismic activities and respective damage to structures, including road

Seismicity Nos and magnitude of local seismic activities and respective damage to structures, including road

Water Pollution, Water Resources and their uses: Surface/ ground

Nos and extent of water-logging at operative and/or decommissioned construction sites

Incidents & trends in development of waterborne diseases Nos of days and nature of traffic delays due to water logging and




water Irrigation waters Drinking water Public taps

inundation Blockage of waterways - extent and secondary impacts Water pollution incidents due to unsafe disposal of waste and

spoil, analysing effects on local fisheries Observations on car washing practices in rivers, and analysis of

potential environmental effects Damage to farm lands due to water shortage or pollution Catch particulars and economics of local fisher folk Trend analysis for local fisheries Records of seasonal groundwater fluctuations Laboratory tests for drinking water quality, determining pH,

particulars, turbidity, BOD, fecal bacteria, NHx, NOx SOx, PO4,

hydrocarbons, selected heavy metals.

Air and Noise Level In relation to traffic volume

Point measurements of noise at settlement sites/sensitive spots and at 2, 5 and 15 m from road shoulder

Qualitative analysis of dust development at selected sites/sensitive spots

Traffic volume measurements


Road Safety Speed measurements at selected spots Nos and type of road accidents recorded in the Traffic Police

Office and in local health service centers Suitability of local road signs Records on public road safety awareness campaigns

Wildlife % Habitat Disturbance Impacts on Forest Resources Plantations

Nos and extent of road accidents inflicting wildlife DFO records of illegal timber extraction and wildlife trade Nos, extents and causes for forest fires Observations and handling of invasive species Success/failure of roadside/compensatory planting & nurseries

Socio-economic Development near road alignment

Demographic, economic and education data Nos and extent of new settlements /types and ethnic groups Nos and extent of new businesses /types and ethnic groups Nos and extent of new services and utilities

The monitoring task and reporting work are undertaken by the concerned road builders – supervising consultants and contractors - prior to and during road upgrading as outlined in EMAP framework given below.

7.2 Pre-Construction Phase Monitoring

In this phase, mainly the environmental baseline data and socioeconomic aspect are collected. Walkover survey has to be done to locate the environmental issues along the road side. Other work during this, is to identify the camp site and specify the chainage wise location, identify potential source of construction material, identify the proper place for spoil disposal, identify the infrastructure that exist within corridor of Impact(COI). All these issues should be noted with chainage. For locating these factors, GPS can be used.

7.3 Construction Phase Monitoring

In this phase the monitoring focuses on checking compliance with the practices, norms, standards and technical solutions prescribed in the Design and in the EMAP. In construction phase monitoring, daily, weekly and monthly visit have been done on construction site to inspect related activities. If any activities have shown non compliance with EMAP then



supervising consultants shall issue letter to instructing him to correct defective within specified time, and will document and present it in Monthly Progress Report.

a. Daily Supervision

In daily supervision, works like excavation activities, fill embankment and excess cut/ fill material disposal carried out in construction field are observed and see whether all activities are complied with the EMAP specification.

b. Weekly Inspections

In Weekly inspection, the Supervising Consultant shall visit the site in week, together with the Contractor, to inspect all the works like retaining and breast wall construction, drain construction, restoration of public utilities and services, quarry/ borrow pits, excess material disposal, stock piled materials under construction:

If any activities have shown non compliance with EMAP then supervising consultants shall document defective works and suggest corrective measures in the Weekly Report. The Supervising Consultant shall provide a copy of the Weekly Report to the Contractor within 2 days of the Inspection for action. All drainage works and drain outlet areas will be inspected after each major storm event.

c. Monthly Inspections

the Supervising Consultant shall undertake a monthly inspection of all sites in use over the preceding month, as well as site activities currently in progress, at the end of each month together with the Contractor. If any activities are not undertaken in accordance with the contract or EMAP conditions, the Supervising Consultant shall document defective works and suggest corrective measures in the Monthly Report. The Supervising Consultant shall provide a copy of the Monthly Report to the Contractor within 2 days of the Inspection for action.

7.4 Post-Construction Phase

Supervising consultant shall undertake a post-construction certification inspection of each completed section of road including its rehabilitated ancillary sites. Qualified certification shall need to respect full to contract conditions including EMAP conditions. The cost for post – construction certification is included in project document of implementation phase.

7.5 Operation Phase

Environmental monitoring of upgraded road during the operation phase shall concentrate on the impact of key environmental issues identified during project design including slide and its conditions, drainage, road side structures etc. DoR's GESU also shall undertake at most two inspections in a year. These inspections will include a visual assessment of:

Road surface condition

Slope conditions (cut / fill)

Road side structures

Drains and drain line including its state

Damage from excess materials disposal

7.6 Project Level Monitoring

Supervising Consultant shall, on behalf of project, undertake its level of monitoring of road upgrading leading to sealed bituminous surface. This monitoring is on type of work activities.



Daily Supervision - Excavation activities, Fill embankment construction and Excess cut /

fill materials disposal Weekly Inspections - Retaining and breast wall construction, Drains construction,

Reinstatement of public utilities and services and Quarry / burrow pits Monthly Inspections - Inspection of all sites in use over the preceding month, as well as site

activities currently in progress, at the end of each month in conjunction with the Contractor.

7.7 DoR Level Monitoring

DoR shall undertake bi-annual monitoring of upgrading works with specific focus on issues associated with road upgrading, level of contractor's respect to EMAP, site constraints etc. Reporting As part of EMP, reports should be produced at regular time intervals depending upon type and size of project by the EMP team or unit. Monthly reports will be prepared and submitted to DOR and World Bank. The Contract will need to state that the DOR must approve the contractor's arrangements for environmental protection, health and safety, waste management and other environmentally related actions identified during the detailed design phase and these must be written into the Contract Document. The environmental consultant will inform the DOR in case of non-compliance and of any other environmental issues that require immediate attention. The contract will detail the remedies for non-compliance by the Contractor. The monthly reports will be based on recurrent site inspections and will report on the Effectiveness of the mitigation measures; the Contractor's compliance with the environmental specifications; measures recommended in the events of non-compliance and recommendations for any other remedial actions, etc.



Table 7.3: Compliance Monitoring for the Sitalpati - Musikot Upgrading Works

Parameters

Verifiable Indicators

Verification Methods

Schedule

Responsible Implementing

Agency

Responsible Monitoring

Agency

Final alignment selection as per IEE /EMAP recommendation

Incorporation of IEE / EMAP recommendations into alignment selection and finalization process

Walkthrough along final road alignment, verifying sensitive areas

preconstruction phase

Consultant Proponent/DoR

Site selection and preparation of construction logistics

Project‟s arrangement for materials storage, and construction activities(Establishment of storage site)

Site observation, geo-referencing and photo-graphic documentation

Beginning of construction period

Technical Consultant, Contractor

Proponent

Implementation of IEE / EMAP recommendation regarding road design

Incorporation of IEE / EMAP recommendation into project design document

Review of final design document and project specifications

Following the completion of detailed design

Technical Consultant

Proponent MoPPW MoEST

Use of local labour, particularly vulnerable groups and women

Number of local labors employed in project

Records of the NGOs/LCF who facilitate and coordinate the process for local people‟s employment, interviews

During the entire period where labour work is contracted, Once a month

Contractor Proponent

Awareness and orientation training on road construction to technicians, and locally employed labourers

Organised training programmes for skill development, occupational safety and environmental protection associated with road construction works

Specifications; Training records, check training programme reports, assess feedback from participants.

Beginning of construction and during construction

Proponent in assistance of Technical Consultant

Proponent

Occupational Health and Safety matters

Health and safety regulations, first aid and medical arrangements, contingency plan, number and type of safety equipments such as mask, helmet, glove and ear plug, safety belt, sanitation in labour

Spot checks at camps and work sites, photos, accident records, causes

throughout construction activities, Once a month

Contractor Proponent, Consultant



Parameters



Schedule


Agency


Agency

camp

Environmental protection measures, including pollution prevention, water and soil management, slope stabilisation, cut and fill, waste management, spoils, sensitive habitats and critical sites, protection of fauna and flora.

Arrangement specified in the Code of Practice and in Manuals relating to environ-mental protection; records and observations on pollution, waste management, spoil deposit. Training programmes for labourers to prevent impacts on wildlife sensitive habitats, forests and fuel wood use.

Site inspection, discussion with project management, consultants, and local people. Quantifying site-specific impacts, photos, laboratory tests where required. Existing patrol, control and enforcement mechanisms, enforcement records

Before and during construction period

Consultant (for baseline survey) Contractor

Proponent, Consultant

Forest and Vegetation clearance Actual number of trees felled during construction works,

Record, inspection, royalty record and interview

After detail design and before construction work

Contractor Proponent, Consultant DFO

Pressure on forest and wildlife Use of firewood or fossil fuel by construction crew, events of hunting and poaching of wildlife

Inspection, interview Regular by contractor; Once a month by Consultant


Air & noise pollution

TSP (Total Suspended Particulates), Particulates, SOx, NOx in ambient air Noise level in construction sites

Laboratory test of site-selected samples, point source noise data, interview, photos

Regular by Contractor, Once in two months during construction by Consultant

Contractor Proponent Consultant

Water pollution

Turbidity, Oil and Grease, Dissolved Oxygen in local water sources, open defecation and waste disposal around water sources near construction sites and labour camps

Site inspection, laboratory test of site-selected samples, interview

Continuous by contractor, before and after monsoon by consultant


public health and accident risks Health and safety regulations, first aid and medical

Spot checks at camps and work sites, photos, accident records

Throughout construction




Parameters



Schedule


Agency


Agency

arrangements, contingency plan Safety awareness programme. Provision of toilet and waste management facility to the construction crew

from Traffic Police; Training records and material, Road signs

activities, Once in two months by Consultant

Restoration, rehabilitation, reconstruction of all infrastructure services disrupted or damaged by the proposal activities

Continued services by the facilities and functional public life

Site observation DDC records, Public Consultation Meetings, photos

Continuous by contractor; once in 15 days by consultant


Adequate technical and environmental supervision

Adequate number of technicians regularly at site Ability to implement labour based road construction concept

Check number and type of technicians available at site Skill of work carried out Discussion

During Construction by contractor, twice a month by Consultant

Consultant Proponent, LCF

Clean Up and Reinstatement of the construction sites (camps, quarries, borrow pits)

Decommissioned sites indicate no adverse/residual environmental impacts, and are rehabilitated to the satisfaction of the supervisor and land owners

Site observation, comparative photos, consultation with land owners and CBOs

At end of construction period

Contractor Proponent



Table 7.4: Impact / Effect Monitoring for the Sitalpati-Musikot Highway Upgrading Works

Parameter



Location

Schedule


Agency


Agency

Slope Stability Erosion

Inclination, slope failures, causes; Drainage facilities such as catch drain, side drains and functionality of DC structures; Fresh gullies and erosion Success/failure of bio-engineering solutions

Site observation, photos Discussion with people and technicians

Near steep slopes and at slide areas and sites where bio-engineering failed

Continuously during construction and operation

Technical Consultant Maintenance Division DoR

Proponent, Soil Conservation Office/DoF

Bio-engineering of Disturbed Slopes

Re-vegetation through bio-engineering application on disturbed slope Establishment of nursery

Site observation Inspection of nursery and its production rate; photos, measurements

Cut slope area, where vegetation is cleared; Nursery

During and at end of project construction

Contractor NGOs/CBOs

Proponent, Consultant

Disposal of Spoils and Construction Wastes

Initiated erosion, affected aesthetic value, affected forest and agriculture, initiated land erosion by local blocked drainage, hazard to downhill slope residents and agricultural lands

Site observation and interviews, photos, geo-referencing sites

At specific locations where such sites occur

During construction


Quarrying of Construction Materials

Initiated erosion, changes in river regime, erosion by river systems, landslide due to quarrying, degradation of vegetation, water logging, waterborne diseases

Site observation, photos Records from local health centres

Quarry site areas

During construction

Contractor Proponent, Consultant Health Posts

Disruption of Drainage System

Status of rehabilitation Service status of irrigation and water supply system, Operation and maintenance requirement

Observation and interviews, photos, fisheries data, wildlife records

Disrupted aquatic system, irrigation schemes

During construction

Contractor Proponent, Consultant DADO

Loss or Status of road side land Observation, data Road side land During NGO, DADO, LFB



Parameter



Location

Schedule


Agency


Agency

degradation of farmland/roadside houses

Production / yield Status of road side houses

collection and analysis and interview

and houses construction

Water Quality Turbidity, Oil and Grease, Dissolved Oxygen

Water quality tests of source of drinking and irrigation water

Water bodies of importance

During con-struction and operation

Contractor DADO, LFB

Air Quality Total Suspended Solid, Particulates, SOx, NOx

Visual inspection, measurement, and comparison with baseline data, tests

At construction sites and at sensi-tive spots (schools, hospitals)

During construction and operation

Contractor DADO, LFB

Forest and Vegetation

Numbers of trees, presence of ground vegetation, signs of illicit logging and extraction of NTFPs

Observations, DFO records, photos, stakeholder interviews

In and around the construction sites, markets,

During con-struction and operation

Contractor CFUG, DFO

DDC, DTO, TA Team, DRCC, LRCC

Harvest/trade of Medicinal herbs

Sales of medicinal herbs increased Observation, interviews, photos

Project Area and market

During operation

NGO DDC/ VDC, DFO

Wild life Wildlife hunting trapping and poaching by work force, Trade of wildlife, Biological survey on selected biota

Interview with local people / DFO, photos Observations

Forest areas at roadside

Throughout project

Contractor, LCF, DFO

Proponent, Consultant DFO

Public Health Types of diseases and amount of disease in the Project Area and local community

Discussion with local people, health workers, records of clinics

Entire Project Area

Monthly during construction

NGO DDC, VDC, Health Post

Change in Economy

Numbers of people employed by the project during construction Numbers of women in work forces Changes in land use pattern

Records kept by the project management, discussion with people

Project Area Twice a year during con-struction and operation

Consultant, Contractor, NGO, LCF

Proponent

Trade and Numbers of shops increased or Records, Project Area Throughout Consultant, Proponent,



Parameter



Location

Schedule


Agency


Agency

Commerce decreased, rental of houses and land spaces

interviews, observations, photos

project NGO VDC

Industries Establishment of industries in the vicinity of Project Area

Records and interviews, photos

Project Area/zone of influence

Throughout project

Consultant, NGO

Proponent, VDC, DDC

Occupational Safety and Hazard

Type and number of accident occurred during construction, Adequacy of occupational safety measured provided Compensation provided in case of fatal accidents or invalidity

Observations, photos, spot checks, Contractors‟ and health centre records interview with labourers

Project Area During construction

Contractor Proponent, Consultant Health Authorities

Ribbon Settlement Congestions to road users Nos. of accidents, RoW encroachment

Records, observations

Project Area During operation

Div. Road Office

VDC, DDC, CDO



7.8 Responsible Monitoring Agencies

Tables 7.8 indicate a fair number of governmental and non-governmental agencies who become involved at some stage in the monitoring process. The Project Proponent, being the Department of Roads under the Ministry of Physical Planning and Works (MoPPW), is the main responsible agency for managing the construction and maintenance of the proposed road.

In most cases where monitoring refer to the Proponent as the principal responsible agency, the specific tasks refer to the direct involvement of the Geo-Environment and Social Unit (GESU) of the Department

Other institutions directly involved are the forestry and agriculture agencies, at their district level. Next to the DFO, the CFUGs play an important role in the protection of flora and fauna. DDC and VDCs will be more involved as local level authorities. Road security and enforcement of traffic regulations comes under the mandate of the Police under the Ministry of Home Affair.

NGOs/CBOs are indirectly involved in carrying out awareness generation and social development programs. These agencies are also involved in mobilizing and arranging for local labourers to be contracted by the Contractors. The general and site-specific supervision and monitoring will be entrusted to a Supervision Consultant assisting the Proponent to ensure proper construction practices and implementation of the management options and mitigation measures proposed in the Environmental Action plan. The organisational chart for implementing the EMAP is illustrated in the following diagram:

Fig. 7.8.1: Environmental Management Organizational Structure

MPPW - Environment Section

CDO Department of Roads

DDC/VDC

District Land Revenue

Office GESU Project Proponent

Local Forum of

Beneficiaries

Consultant

Local Labour Groups in Labour Intensive works (if needed)

Contractors

Technical Staff

- Dist. Forest Office - Dist. Agriculture Office - Dist. Watershed Office - Dist. Irrigation

Office

CFUGs

NGOs/

CBOs

CFC



7.9 Environmental Management Plan

The EMP is prepared to guide implementation of mitigation measures and monitoring requirements. It includes institution and their roles, environmental management activities, environmental management organizational structure and budget for mitigation measures. Framework for environmental management plan is given in table 7.9.1 and environmental management plan format and environmental agreement format is given in appendix A and B.

Table 7.9.1: Framework of environmental management plan for beneficial Impacts

Beneficial Environmental

Impact

Affected Location

Beneficial Augmentation

Measure

Enhancement Cost

Responsible Agency

Implementing Agency

Supervising Agency

Employment Generation and Increase in Income

Entire project area

Involvement of women, dalit and ethnic minority poor people and providing life skill training for income generation activities

Construction Contract

Contractor Consultant and Dor

Skill Enhancement

On need base location

Organize skill training programs and income generation training


Contractor/Consultant

Consultant/DOR

Women Empowerment

Entire project are

Employ women in construction activities.



Consultant and DOR

Increase in land value

Entire Project area

Promotion of land development activities and control of encroachment within RoW.

- VDC/DDC/NGO VDC/DDC

Improvement in accessibility, saving of time and transportation cost

Entire project area

Proper maintenance of the road

- Contractor during DLP period and Road division office after DLP period

Road Division Office

Increase in productivity

Entire project area

Provide market link, training on high yield agricultural production

- NGO/DDCVDC/ VDC/DDC

Enhancement of community development services

Entire project area

Promotion of community development activities such as education, school, health and sanitation services will be supported and linkage with social infrastructure services will be developed.

- NGO/VDC/DDC VDC/DDC



Beneficial Environmental

Impact

Affected Location

Beneficial Augmentation

Measure

Enhancement Cost

Responsible Agency

Implementing Agency

Supervising Agency

Development of market center

Entire project area

Sewerage and other basic facilities will be supported in the market centers.

- VDC/DDC/Local People

VDC/DDC

Increased crop productivity and sale of farm products

Entire project area

Market linkages will be developed.

- - -

Access to inputs and services

Entire Project area

Agricultural support services will be improved for the increased income from the farm products.

- - -



Table 7.9.2: Framework of Environment Management Plan for Adverse Impact Measures

Aspect Activity Adverse

Environmental Impact

Affected Location

Mitigation Measures Mitigation

cost

Responsible Agency

Implementing Agency

Supervising Agency

Construction Period

Physical

Fresh cut and Earthwork Excavation

Slope failure, disruption of road, water pollution nearby water bodies, dust pollution

Along the road side where earth excavation work is necessary.

-Cover fresh cuts, take precaution on water pollution, construction of dyke around stockpiled material, spoil, fresh cuts, employ bio-engineering

Included in Contract Document

Contractor Consultant and Dor

Spoil Disposal

Disruption of road, damage to farmland, water pollution etc

All disposal Sites

- Wherever possible, surplus spoil will be used to fill eroded gullies, quarries and borrow pits, depressed areas etc.

- Contractor must identify and select suitable and safest locations for the dumping or land fill sites with sufficient capacity and approvals should be obtained from relevant Local Authorities

- Excess spoils will be disposed in specified tipping sites in a controlled manner.

- Spoils should not be disposed on fragile slopes, farmland, marshy land, forest areas, natural drainage path, canals and other infrastructures.

- After the disposal, the site will be provided with proper drainage, vegetation and adequate protection against erosion.

- Proper engineering design (including drainage and erosion control facilities) should be prepared by the contractor and written approval should be obtained from the local communities prior to dumping at the each identified site. Provisions of toe walls and retaining walls would protect the disposal of soil.

- Adequate protection against erosion will be achieved by active re-vegetation with plants selected from the „DoR Roadside Bio-engineering Reference Manual and Site Handbook, 2002‟ to ensure that the right plants are being used. (Reviewed and Updated)

Included in Contract document

Contractor Consultant/Dor





Affected Location


cost

Responsible Agency

Implementing Agency

Supervising Agency

Operation of Quarry Sites

Damage to farmland, property, etc

All quarry site where material is to be extracted

- The authority from the local authority office is necessary before opening the new quarry.

- Unstable sites, erosion prone area, dense forest area, settlements, fertile farm land will be avoided for quarrying operation.

- After the extraction is completed, the quarry site will be rehabilitated to suit the local landscape.

- Blasting has to be avoided for quarrying.

Included in Contract Document

Contractor Consultant/DOR

Cut and fill activities

Slope Instability and Soil Erosion

All area where cut and fill is necessary

- Ensuring minimum cut slope - Selecting cut and fill slope at correct angle

depending upon the soil type Undertake and effect fill in layers no deeper than 150mm and compact before applying next layer.

- Re-vegetation of cut and fill slope or exposed areas as soon as possible by using native plant species

- Adoption of civil engineering work in conjunction with bio-engineering techniques

- Ensuring minimum damage of vegetation during construction

- No construction work during rainy season



Consultant/DOR

Construction activity

Air Pollution All along the road

- Use of face mask by the workers to minimize air pollution due to dust generation

- Plantation of local species along the roadside - Quarries, crushers and asphalt plants must be

located at least 500m away from residential or other public sensitive areas

- Spray water before loading and transportation of soil and sand particularly during windy conditions.

- Dust causing materials must be covered with during transportation

- Dust emissions must be minimized at working areas, excavated areas, quarry

- Sites and crusher sites by spraying of water regularly.

- Ground surface of sites where the crusher plant located should be covered by tarpaulin layer to minimize the dust generation due to vehicle



Consultant and DOR





Affected Location


cost

Responsible Agency

Implementing Agency

Supervising Agency

moving. - Drum of the crusher can be covered by

maintaining the appropriate height and conveyer belts also can be covered without disturbing to the process in order to minimize the dust generation.

- Construction materials must be stored in covered places or must be covered with a suitable covering to prevent dust emissions wind.

- Protective blasting should be carried out to minimize dust and other gas emissions.

Disruption in natural water flow due to construction of water related structure

Causes a number of risks , impairment in water bodies Risk to downstream people

All area where such structures are proposed for made.

- Adequate numbers of drainage structures will be provided in order to have minimum interference on natural drainage pattern of the area

- Drain water discharge into farmland or risky locations will be avoided.

- No diversion of water away from natural water course unless it is absolutely necessary

- Avoid any blockage or diversion of natural channels due to (intended or incidental) disposal of spoil.

- Install cascades, steps, energy dissipaters, and check dams including bio-engineering measures as per design for gully protection to avoid depth and side erosion of natural course including river beds.

- Restrict and avoid water extracts for construction works from the standpipes and public water supplies, without prior permission of VDC.

Included in contract document


Disruption of Water Resources Related Infrastructures

All area where such structure is hampered. Mainly on chainage 106+300 100+ 400 etcand other given in

- Restoration / reinstating of all disturbed infrastructures

- Coordination with concerned local authorities like District Irrigation Office, District

- The sources of water should be maintained as in original state if damaged during the road construction

Contamination of water supply system will be avoided.






Affected Location


cost

Responsible Agency

Implementing Agency

Supervising Agency

appendices


Noise pollution Crusher plant side

- To mitigate the impacts due to noise, construction machinery should be operated only during the day time.

- Contractor shall equip properly tuned and well maintained heavy construction equipments and vehicles.

- Suitable noise controlling devices such as exhaust silencers can be used to control noise.

- All construction vehicles, machinery and equipments must be properly maintained to comply with the National Emission Standards.

- If vibration levels exceed the permissible levels, contractor shall modify the method of construction until compliance with the acceptable level.

- When constructions are carried out near public sensitive areas such as schools, hospitals or religious places the contractor must schedule the construction activities in consultation with the relevant Authorities to avoid any inconvenience.(New Addition)

- Use of ear muffles to lessen noise pollution during rock breaking and quarrying


Contractor Consultant and DOR

Stockpiling of Constructions materials

Blockage of drain, damage to forest or agricultural land, dust generation

Place where construction material is piled.

- The land for storing the construction material should be far from the agriculture land and water bodies.

- As a procedural respect, concerned contractor need to fill in standard pro-forma – developed for this issue – and submit it to and secure approval from the Resident Engineer (including from the owner as and if required).

- The permission from the local stakeholder should be taken before commencing the stockpiling of the construction material

- Construction material should be covered with







Affected Location


cost

Responsible Agency

Implementing Agency

Supervising Agency

tarpaulin during stockpiling to prevent from rain water and dust emission generated from the stockpiling site. it should be encircled with side barriers and covered when incidence of mix up with deleterious materials is imminent.

- Seed topsoil stockpiles with a cover crop where they are to be retained for more than one month.

Establishment, Operation and Closure of Crusher Plant

Local people, labor force prone to air noise and water pollution

Crusher plant location.

- Sitting of crusher plants should be done as much away from the residential areas.

- Jaw of the crusher can be installed in a sound proof area without disturbing to the material feeding.

- Apply, seek and secure approval from SC prior to establishing and operating plants

- Identify owner of plants site - local people, Municipality, DDC or VDC as appropriate.

- Strike an agreement with the local stakeholders - local people, Municipality, DDC or VDC as appropriate.

- Fit and operate Stone crushing equipment with dust control devices and operated as per Manufacturer‟s Specification.



Access Road Opening by the Proposed Road Upgraded Stretch

Landslide Area where such road has opened

- The unnecessary demand from local stakeholder for opening of access road must be avoided.

- If such road is important to open, then the IEE study should be carried out.

-


Work on Quarry, rock break up etc.

Risk to human health

Work where such work has to be done.

- The safety gadgets should be provided for the labour during construction work

- The labour should pay fine from his payment if they are not wearing the safety gadget during work

- Awareness training must be provided them for awareness on safety measures.


Contractor , Consultant

Consultant and DOR

Use of pavement rolling machine

Road cracks develop, disturbance to the local nearby

Work where such equipment has to be

- Restrict and limit working hours to day hours especially at urban and sensitive location.

- Alternative pavement compression method needs to practice.


Contractor, Consultant

Consultant and DOR





Affected Location


cost

Responsible Agency

Implementing Agency

Supervising Agency

launched - Monitor cracks caused by vibration due to construction activities

- Seek and practice alternative to minimize crack caused by vibrations.

Chemical

storage/handling and distribution of Bitumen

Risk to human health, water pollution, soil pollution

Area where storage and spreading bitumen has to be carried out.

- Secure safe site for bitumen storage - The permission from the land owner must be

obtained before commencing the storage activities.

- The bitumen storage must not be on fertile land and nearby water bodies.

- If bitumen has spread over the land accidentally and in improper place then it should be cleared immediately.

- The bitumen should not be discharged into the drain structure while overlaying on the sub-base material.

- The bitumen handler must be careful while handling the bitumen.

- Bitumen related work should not be carried out during the rainy condition.



Storage/ handling of chemicals toxic and non-toxic

Impact on human health, flora and fauna living nearby

Areas where work should be done related to chemicals

- No hazardous materials allowed to store near surface waters.

- Collect and re-cycle used lubricants and oils or dispose it off safely.

- Overlay plastic sheeting under hazardous material storage area

- Collect and retain hazardous material leaks and spills laid over the plastic sheet.

- Capture contaminated runoff from storage areas in ditches or ponds with an oil trap at the outlet.

- Pack contaminated and worn plastic sheeting into drums and disposed it off site.

- The vehicles should not be washed directly into the water bodies.

- The vehicles and equipment should be maintenance time to time to ensure any leakage from them.

- The storage of chemical should be in proper place .


Contractor, consultant

Consultant and DOR





Affected Location


cost

Responsible Agency

Implementing Agency

Supervising Agency

Biological

Vegetation removal

Loss of Vegetation and Use of Forest Product

At the area where trees has to be cut.

- Trees shall be cleared after the permission of competent forest authority.

- The loss cannot be minimized, but it can be compensated by planting trees. Compensatory plantation will be in the ratio of 1:25


DFO/Consultant/NGO

Consultant and DOR/DFO

Influx of labor into the construction site

Disturbance to Wildlife

Entire road section

- Workers should be educated through an awareness program about the importance of wildlife for maintaining the ecosystem.

- It is recommended to work during day time to minimize the disturbances to the wildlife.

- Speed breakers have to be incorporated in design

- Posting of environmental signboards (illustrated and in local language) have to be displayed in more wildlife occurrence zone

- The Contractor will be obliged to instruct the work personnel and enforce action for preventing access of labourers to nearby sensitive areas, as identified by the Consultant.

- Harassment to wildlife by the workforce will be strictly restricted.



Influx of construction crew into the construction field

Illegal Hunting and Wildlife Trade

Entire road section

- Illegal hunting and fishing during construction period by the involved construction workforce and project staff will be strictly controlled.

- Depending on the local conditions and logistic constraints, meat and fish for contractor‟s workforce should be supplied by the contractor by purchasing them from larger markets in the region.

- Trading of animal skin, horn, bones, feathers etc. will be fully controlled and supervised, and will be forwarded to enforce legal actions against offenders

- Contractor Consultant and DOR

Labor camp need of fuels for bitumen heating, operation of crusher plant

Exerted pressure on fossil fuel impacting as loss of forest

Entire Road - For construction crews stationed at the camp, contractor will provide kerosene or gas for cooking and heating.

- If heating of bitumen is needed for sealing gravel, kerosene will be utilized

- Use of forest wood will be restricted for meeting







Affected Location


cost

Responsible Agency

Implementing Agency

Supervising Agency

the fuel needs.

Influx of labour, Heavy machinery work, risk due to gravity of work such as Rock break up.

Impact on health and Safety issues

Entire road - The workers will be provided with helmets, masks, muffles depending on the nature of the construction work.

- Drinking water facility and temporary pit latrine will be established at construction sites to control open defecation and pollution of water bodies by the workers.

- Workers will be provided with first aid and health facilities. There will be provision for group accidental insurance for the workers.

- First aid training will be provided to field staffs like overseer, social mobilizers and supervisors.

- The Contractor will be obliged to carry out regular awareness training for the work forces to prevent undesired interactions with the local communities relating to prostitution, the spread of sexually transmitted diseases (above all HIV/AIDS), drug abuses and increased alcohol consume leading to social conflicts, clashes and crime.

- The content and schedule for such awareness campaigns will be subject to specific clauses in the works contracts.


Contractor and consultant

Consultant and DOR

Socioeconomic

Construction camp establishment

Pressure on public utilities by the huge mass of the labour resulting impairment in existing environmental condition.

Camp area - The resource need by the labour should be provided by contractor not disturbing the public utilities.

.

- Contractor Consultant


Social Conflict due to influx of labour

Camp area and market area

- The labour should comply with the code of conduct set by the contractor

- Contractor DPO





Affected Location


cost

Responsible Agency

Implementing Agency

Supervising Agency


Impairment in existing environmental condition due to influx of labour

Entire road section

- The labour should respect the environment of the working area

- They should discharge the waste into proper place - The labour should be strictly prohibited for noise

disturbance - Clear and restore contractor‟s work force camps

to natural or stable conditions with vegetative cover

- Contractor Consultant

Road construction

Impact on community infrastructure

On some location

- Restore all disturbed infrastructures to the condition before disturbance or improve where appropriate in coordination with local people.

Included in contract document

Contractor Consultant

Road construction

Grievance Redressal Mechanism

On need basis location

- Form, activate and maintain GRIEVANCE REDRESSAL MECHANISM for each site of road constructions

- Activate and maintain GRIEVANCE REDRESSAL MECHANISM in concerned project manager‟s office, Resident Engineers office, contractor‟s office for each site of road constructions

- Inform local stakeholders of Grievance Redressal Mechanism‟s existence

- Inform local stakeholders about how they can lodge grievance against contractor‟s fault work for his rectification Undertake and correct fault works by contractor to grievance lodger‟s satisfaction

Operation Stage

Physical

Operation of road

Slope Instability and Erosion

More susceptible location

- Correction of maintenance of the slope protection measures and drainage works

- Minor landslide and mass wasting will be immediately cleared and slope restored with appropriate technology (bioengineering)

- Soil conservation will be promoted in the right of way and vulnerable areas beyond the road alignment

- CFUG will be promoted to conserve and manage their CFs properly

Included in Contract documents

Road division office after DLP period and Contractor during DLP period

Road Division Office





Affected Location


cost

Responsible Agency

Implementing Agency

Supervising Agency

Operation of road

Air, Noise and Water Pollution

Entire Road section

- Vehicle emission standard will be maintained - Speed limit of the vehicles will be maintained - Plantation will be done

- DPO and DDC/VDC/DFO

DDC/VDC

Biological

Operation of road

Depletion of Forest Resources

Along the forest ed area

- CFUGs will be supported to conserve and manage their CFs according to operational plans

- Promote the installation of improved stoves to minimize the consumption of fire wood

- DFO/VDC/DDC

DFO/VDC/DDC

Operation of Road

Disturbance to wildlife and birds

- Prohibition of blowing horns in the dense forest areas

- Potential areas for wildlife crossing

- DPO DPO

Socioeconomic

Operation of Road

Road Accident Entire Road - Required delineators, safety signs, road bumps etc. will be used as appropriate along the road.

- Road safety awareness programs will be conducted, including the propagation of educative hand-out material in local language(s).

- The material shall be propagated in schools and be available at all VDCs.

- It is also recommended to place illustrated sign boards at accident-prone spots and bus bays

Included in contract documents

DPO DPO

Operation of Road

New Settlement Along the Road

Along the road , probably more near the market area

- Discouraging ribbon settlements along the road awareness raising programme through local organizations to plan proper settlements

- Regulate settlement growth with proper panning along RoW

- Plantation of trees along the road.

- Road Division Office, Ministry of Physical Planning

Road Division Office/VDC/DDC

Operation of Road

Change in Social Behavior

Entire Road area dn adjoining village

- Facilitating awareness raising programmes to the communities about negative social behavior like gambling, excess use of alcohol.

- VDC/DDC/NGO

VDC/DDC



7.10 Costs for Executing the Environmental Management Action Plan

7.10.1 Specific Cost Details

a. Land Acquisition Cost As the road already exists and all structure located along the side are already compensated in Road Maintenance Development Project (RMDP) , There will be 23.29 ha land is needed for acquisitions. The rate will be determined by compensation fixation committee.

b. Tree Compensatory Plantation The compensatory plantation, as envisaged by the Department of Forest, MOFSC is in the ratio of 1:25 for well-grown trees. Shrubs and bamboo are compensated differently. Source for the saplings are newly established nurseries, operated through a local NGO. The planted tree saplings have to be tended for 5 years. The costs for tree felling and clearance of the site from vegetation are included in the overall engineering costs of the Project.

Table 7.10.1.1: Costs for Tree Plantation

Measures/Activities Costs in Rs Remarks

Planting of 375 saplings, incl. site preparation, pitting, mulching

15000 15 trees to be cleared, replacement ratio 1 : 25 @ Rs 40/sapling

Replacement of 112 dead saplings @ Rs 40

4480 assuming 30% mortality

Tools 6,000 LS

Tending and maintenance for 5 years

17,000 Lump Sum

SUB-TOTAL 42480

c. Awareness and Training Activities Awareness program will be organized for construction labors. All the cost related to the awareness and training will be later determined in detail design period and cost will be included then d. Environmental Monitoring Activities The overall responsibility for environmental monitoring is transferred to Supervision Consultant. Given the above assumptions, the following monitoring costs are to be incurred by the Project:

Table 7.10.1.2: Costs for Environmental and Social Monitoring

Specifications MM Rate Amount

Expert Team Monitoring Cost

Environmental Management Specialist

2.5 100,000 250,000

Sociologist / Resettlement Expert 2 80,000 160,000

Biologist / Bio-Engineering Specialist 1 80,000 80,000

Stationary and Computer LS 30,000

Printing and Photocopies LS 30,000

Transportation LS 60,000

Cost for Monitoring by GESU LS 125,000

Cost for Monitoring by MoPPW LS 75,000

SUB-TOTAL 810,000



7.10.2 Summary Costs for Environmental and Social Safeguard Measures

The total environmental and social mitigation costs, including the costs for land acquisition are summarized in Table.

Table 7.10.2.1: Cost of Environmental Mitigation and Social Safeguard Measures

S. No Measures/Activities Costs Rs Remarks

1 Land Acquisition, Property Acquisition and Resettlement

-

see above

2 Tree compensatory Plantation

42480

2 Awareness & Training Activities

- see above

3 Environmental & Social Monitoring

810,000

4

Restoration / enhancement of local community infrastructures

2030000

estimated at nominal Rs 25,000 per constructed km LS as per practice

TOTAL (round figure) 2882480



8 Other Necessary Matters

8.1 Review of Acts, Regulations and Guidelines

8.1.1 National Acts, Plans and Policies

Article 35 (5) of Interim Constitution of Nepal, (Second Amendment, 2007), as supreme law of the country, proclaims that: “The State shall make necessary arrangements to maintain clean environment. The State shall give priority to the protection of the environment, and also to the prevention to its further damage due to physical development activities by increasing the awareness of the general public about environmental cleanliness, and the State shall also make arrangements for the special protection of the environment and the rare wildlife. Provision shall be made for the protection of the forest, vegetation and biodiversity, its sustainable use and for equitable distribution of the benefit derived from it”. Thus, the provision clearly indicates the need of environmental assessment to be carried out for development projects, as it is the only proven tool for identifying potential impacts long before they arise and for suggesting preventive mitigation measures. Article 16 (1) proclaims that every person shall have the right to live in clean environment. Article 19 (1) states that every citizen shall, subject to the laws in force, have the right to acquire, own, sell and otherwise dispose of the property. Article 19 (2) states that the State shall not, except in the public interest, requisition, acquire, or create any encumbrance on the property of any person. Provided that this clause shall not be applicable on property acquired through illegal means. Article 19 (2) states that , compensation shall be provided for any property requisitioned, acquired or encumbered by the State in implementing scientific land reform programme or in public interest in accordance with law. The compensation and basis thereof and operation procedure shall be as prescribed by law.

The Local Self-Governance Act, 1999 empowers the local bodies for the Conservation of soil, forest and other natural resources and implement environmental conservation activities. Sections 28, 43, 189 and 201 of the Act are of relevance and is attracted while implementing this EMAP.

The Three Years Interim Plan (2007 – 2010) has adopted a strategy of developing, constructing and expanding roads linking district headquarters and roads linking northern and southern parts of the country. Priority has also been given to develop fast track roads, ropeways and cable car. The plan has adopted the policy to promoting private sector‟s investment and participation in road network development. It has planned to link all district headquarters by the end of Fiscal year 2063/2064 BS. It has also prioritized to link major commercial centres, and avoid or minimize adverse environmental impacts (NPC, 2007). During the last nearly two and half decades, GoN has endorsed and implemented several sectoral policies and conservation – friendly documents which also focus on conducting environmental assessment. To name a few, the National Conservation Strategy ( 1988), Master Plan for Forestry Sector ( 1989), Nepal Environmental Policy and Action Plan ( NEPAP I and II) ( 1993 and 1998), and Sustainable Development Agenda for Nepal( 1993) provide a number of opportunities to internalize and institutionalize environmental assessment process in Nepal.

The National Transport Policy, 2001 (2058) emphasizes to construct and improve the road that provides beneficial environmental impacts (MPPW, 2001). The working policy focuses on making arrangement to dispose battery, Mobil, grease and other oily substances at designated places.



The Environmental Policy on the Environmental Assessment of the Road Sector, 2000 provides additional opportunities to make the road project environment – friendly and sustainable (DOR, 2000). This documents outlines the types of environmental impacts associated with implementation of road projects; advocates for environmental assessments and usage of its recommendations to make the road sustainable; propose the types of environmental activity to be conducted at different phases of the road project; summarizes appropriate environmental mitigation measures to be considered to avoid or minimize the likely adverse environmental impacts; and, provides indicative environmental monitoring checklists. In the nutshell, this policy document attempts to ensure the integration of environmental aspects in the road projects by carrying out either IEE or EIA.

As the project will be implemented or will pass through the forests, there are other policies that emphasize the conservation of natural resources and biodiversity. The Forest Policy, 2000 has re-emphasized the conservation of forests, species and soil, and their sustainable use. The policy calls upon enhancing people‟s participation in the development and management of forests, and promotes to include communities in decision-making process. The policy also promotes benefit sharing, which are accrued from natural resources management, particularly the forests. The policy instruments oblige the Proponent to least damage and/or affect the environmental resources while implementing projects and programs.

8.1.2 Environment Related National Legislations for the Construction of Road

The legal regime on the environment provides opportunities to integrate environmental aspects in the development projects. The Environment Protection Act ( EPA), and the Environment Protection Rules ( EPR), 1997 ( Amendment 1999), enforced since June 1997, oblige the Proponent to prepare and receive approval the IEE and EIA Reports of all projects/ proposals as included in Schedule 1 and Schedule 2 of EPR, 1997 related with Rule 3. Section 3 to 6 of the EPA, 1996 and Rules 3 to 11 of the EPR,1997 contain provisions on the approval process of the IEE report. Rule 12 of the EPR oblige the Proponent to comply with matters mentioned in the report and other conditions, if any, prescribed by the approving agency, i.e. the concerned agency (Ministry of Physical Planning and Works in case of IEE for SRN, and MOEST for EIA). The Rule 13 obliges the concerned body. i.e. MPPW for this proposal, to conduct environmental monitoring. As per the environmental law, the Proponent should implement the environmental enhancement and mitigation measures as per Environmental Management Plan prepared in IEE or EIA. The Proponent is not required to prepare EMP for IEE study as per EPA and EPR. However, it could be prepared and implemented to mitigate adverse environmental impacts through pre-designed plan.

In relation to this Proposal, the Public Road Act, 1974 has been attracted and this legislation provides provisions to ensure the construction and operation of the road projects smoothly. Section 3 of the act empowers GON to prohibit construction of permanent structures (buildings) in the prescribed distance from the road. The DOR may acquire permanently or temporarily the land and other property adopting compensatory measures during the construction, rehabilitation and maintenance of the public road (section 14 & 15). The Act obliges DOR to plant trees on both sides of the road and handover it to the local bodies (VDC or municipality) for their management (section 16). The act also empowers the DOR to operate quarries and borrow pits and other facilities during the road construction (Section 17). In a nutshell, the Act facilitates construction of this road and acquire land and property for the extraction of construction materials and development of other facilities through compensation as negotiated and as well as to maintain greenery along the roadside.



As the road passes through the forest areas, the Forest Act, 1993 and the Forest Rules, 1995 are also attracted. Section 68 of the Forest Act, 1993 empowers GON, in case of no alternative, to assure that it does not adversely affect the environment significantly. Furthermore, the forestry laws oblige the Proponent to conserve the legally protected species (plants and wild animals including Champ (Michelia champacta), Khayer (Acacia catechu) and Sal (Shorea robusta)). As the proposed road does not pass through any declared protected areas (National Park, Wildlife Reserve, Conservation Area, Hunting Reserve, Wetland Area) and also declared Watershed Area, the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act, 1973 and the Soil and Watershed Conservation Act, 1982 and their Rules are not attracted. Furthermore, this road will not affect the forest area as a part of site clearance as it is under upgrading stage.

If construction activities require the use of explosive, in accordance with the Explosive Material Act, 1961, prior approval of the Chief District Officer (CDO) is needed to purchase explosives. Article 4 of the Act is relevant.

Labor Act, 1992 (first amendment, 1998) and Labor Rule, 1994 deals with manual labor in Nepal. Clause 46 under Section 7 deals particularly with construction industry. The Act defines working time as eight hours a day and a weekend leave. A half hour break should be given as snack and tea break before continuous work of maximum five hours. Clause 27 to 32 under Section 5 gives details for occupational health and safety requirement to be maintained for labors. It calls for insurance and safety management of labors. It also directs to establish camp near temporary working sites with drinking water, food, sanitation and residential facilities if numbers of labors are fifty or more in construction projects. The Labor Rule, 1994 guarantees equal wage for male and female. It also lists the percentage of compensation for different types of accidents during work at site.

Land and Property Acquisition and Resettlement: Land Acquisition Act, 2034 (1977) with amendment in 2049 (1993) guides the compulsory acquisition of land in the country. The Land Acquisition Act 2034 (1977) and the Land Acquisition Rules 2026 (1969) are the two main legal instruments that specify procedural matters of land acquisition and compensation. Government can acquire land at any place in any quantity by giving compensation pursuant to the Act for the land acquired for any public purposes or for operation of any development project initiated by government institutions (Section 3 and 4). The powers given under these sections are very broad as government is empowered to acquire any land in the name of public works. The Constitution of the Kingdom of Nepal, 2047 (1990) Article 17 (3) provides for compensation to be paid to the individual if the state takes land for development purposes.

With respect to the resettlement policy framework, the following legal provisions outlined in the Land Acquisition act are relevant:

The acquisition and compensation of privately-owned assets are undertaken according to a formal procedure, consisting of (a) initial procedures, (b) a preliminary investigation process, (c) acquisition notification, (d) compensation notification, and (e) appeal procedures.

Compensation Determination Committees are established (at district level) to ascertain compensation rates for land and other assets.

Compensation must be paid (a) for damages caused as a result of investigations during the preliminary investigation process, and (b) for land and assets permanently acquired by the project (including, standing crops, trees and houses).

Compensation must be in cash (lump sum), although titleholders who have lost all of their landholdings may be given replacement land, if available.



Compensation will be made to the person who has the right to claim for the compensation; to be entitled to compensation for land, a person must submit an official land registration certificate at the time of compensation.

Titleholders are required to submit compensation claims or complaints within a specified period after the land acquisition notice had been issued by the Local Authority (Chief District Officer). Compensation for land is paid after determination of rates and verification of the list of entitled applicants by the CFC.

Two separate rates of compensation can be paid i) to title holders who lose all their land, and ii) to title holders who lose only some part of their land.

In determining the compensation amount, the committee has to consider relevant periodic guidelines of GoN and the loss suffered by persons due to acquisition of land, shift of residence or place of business to another place.

If the land has to be acquired…, the CFC has to consider the following in determining the compensation amount: price of the land prevailing at the time of notification of land acquisition, price of standing crops and structure, and damage incurred by persons being compelled to shift their residence or place of business due to land acquisition.

8.1.3 National Environmental and Social Safeguard Related Documents

Before and after the enforcement of EPA (1997) and EPR (1997), various environmental guidelines have been developed to integrate the environmental aspects in development projects and programs. Before mid-1990s, GON endorsed and implemented the procedural environmental guidelines such as National EIA Guidelines, 1993, and separate EIA guidelines for forestry and industry sectors in 1995 (NPC, 1993, and MoFSC and MoI, 1995). These guidelines assist the Proponent to identify the likely impacts of the projects on the environment, propose mitigation measures and conduct monitoring to make the projects environmentally sound, less costly (economically feasible) and technically appropriate. These guidelines, including the Draft EIA Guidelines for Road Sector, 1996 facilitate the Proponent to prepare the project level environmental assessment (IEE or EIA) reports.

Reference Manual for Environmental and Social Aspects of Integrated Road Development, MPPW/DoR, 2003 has been prepared by DOR under RMDP. The Manual is designed to help integrate social and environmental considerations, including public involvement strategies, with technical road construction practices. It suggests stepwise process of addressing E&S issues alongside the technical, financial and others. The Manual is based on the experiences of Nepal, as well as incorporates the national (EPA, 1996; EPR, 1997/1999) and international „best practices‟. It suggests process of environmental and social assessment process, roles and responsibilities of stakeholders at various stages of the project, advise on impact mitigation action plans, and process for involving the public.

Environmental Management Guidelines, GESU/DoR, July, 1999 has been prepared as part of the program undertaken jointly by GON and the World Bank under the Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation Project. This Guideline is formally approved by Minister level decision on Kartik 22, 2053 BS (1997). The Guideline is the part of operational practices for all road maintenance, rehabilitation and construction activities under DOR. The Guideline consists of environmental mitigation measures to be incorporated into DOR projects, procedure for public participation, and socio-economic considerations. The environmental mitigation measures are broken down into twelve categories including (i) Quarries; (ii) Borrow Pits; (iii) Spoil and Construction Waste Disposal; (iv) Work Camp Location and Operation; (v) Labour Camp Location and Operation; (vi) Earthwork/Slope Stabilization; (vii) Use of Bitumen; (viii) Stockpiling of Materials; (ix) Explosive, Combustible and Toxic Materials Management; (x) Setting Up and Operation of Stone Crushing Plants; (xi) Water Management; (xii) Air & Noise Pollution. Implementation methods for undertaking mitigation measures for each of the activities are also given in the Guideline. The Guideline suggests methods for determining how and when the public should be included in the environmental analysis. The Guideline



also advise on socio-economic impacts, and strategies for reducing or avoiding the potential negative impacts, and for maximizing the beneficial impacts to local residents. The Socio-economic impacts include important issues of land acquisition and compensation and other economic impacts related with markets for agriculture production, agriculture inputs, nutrition, extraction of natural resources beyond replenishment, migration and influx of migrants, land speculation, illegal logging and mining, portering etc. It also includes impacts on cultural heritage.

Land Acquisition Guidelines: Two sets of guidelines related to land acquisition are significant for DoR Sector Wide use. They are the Land Acquisition Guidelines, 1989 and guidelines pursuant to section 16 and 17 of the Land Acquisition Act, 1977. These guidelines specify two categories of affected families, Project Affected Families (PAF) and Seriously Project Affected Family (SPAF). A PAF consists of the members of a household including elderly dependents and minor children (under 18 years) residing under one roof and operating as a single economic unit, who are adversely affected by the project. SPAF is defined as a family who looses over 25% of its total land holdings or whose land is reduced to an uneconomic holding (less than 5.0 katha) or who is being displaced.

Under these guidelines the concerned officials, with the assistance of the project team, are to carry out assessments of project affected families to identify their standard of living and types of assets. Valuation of land and asset lost were to be based on comparative market values of similar assets in the vicinity. The guidelines also included arrangements for rehabilitation of project affected families. For PAF's, the compensation package includes cash for assets acquired or damaged by the project and a rehabilitation grant to cover any suffering and hardship. For SPAF's, the compensation additionally include employment for one family member and provision of skill training.

The Guidelines specify the establishment of an Acquisition and Rehabilitation Committee (also known as Compensation Fixation Committee, “CFC”) consisting of the concerned Chief District Officer (Chair), Land Revenue Officer, representative of the DDC and the Project Manager and others as deemed necessary. The Committee is responsible for acquiring land and paying compensation. In 1993, a second set of guidelines reduced the Acquisition and Rehabilitation Committee to a four-member Compensation Fixation and Rehabilitation Management Committee by dropping the Land Revenue Officer and other government appointees. The functions and powers of the committee were clarified as were methods of payment and means of ensuring fair valuation of land quality.

The legal provisions prescribe 21 steps in the Land Acquisition Process:

Table 8.3.1: Procedural Steps in the Land and Property Acquisition Process

Step Action Responsibility Time

Required

Clause No.

in LAA

1 Identify the areas of land to be acquired and requests authorization from the concerned Ministry or Department to proceed with acquisition

Project Manager (PM)

Determined during feasibility/ design work

3,4

2 Ministry/Department officially authorizes the PM to initiate preliminary action for land acquisition

Ministry of Dept. ½ month 5

3 Issues notice of preliminary action and affix it in proper places for information.

PM 1 month 6 (1)

4 After 3 days, start land survey and prepare maps, measure dimensions of houses/walls,

PM 1-2 months 6 (2,3) 7




Required

Clause No.

in LAA

count of trees to be felled and assess the amount of standing crops to be cut, etc. Estimate compensation for lost houses, trees, crops. Complete preliminary action within 15 days, submit all documents to Chief District Officer (CDO) for further action.

8 (1)

5 PAPs may complain to the CDO about the amount of compensation for houses, trees, crops, etc.

Land Owner ½ month 7 (3)

6 Review of the PM's documents from preliminary action and decides on complaints of compensation for losses. The CDO's decision is final.

CDO 2 months 9 (1)

7 Issuing of a land acquisition notice, to be publicly displayed at the following places:

The local office of the concerned project

District Administration Office

The concerned VDC/Municipality offices

Land Administration or Revenue office

Thoroughfares located around the concerned lands

Other places as the CDO may deem appropriate.

The notice should also indicate that the land owners shall submit an application claiming compensation within a minimum time limit of 15 days, with evidence of the land ownership certificate. The time limit will be allowed for the owners to fell trees or cut standing crops, demolish houses or walls to the land owners.

CDO 2-3 months

9 (2)

8 Information to land owners who may not become aware of the notice.

CDO ½ month 9 (3)

9 After receiving the land acquisition notice, suspends any land transaction until the CDO directs it to lift the suspension.

Land Revenue Office

½ month 9 (4)

10 CDO forms a Compensation Fixing Committee (CFC) of the following officers to determine the amount of compensation payable:

CDO

Land Administrator of Chief of the Revenue office

PM in the case of a project and officer designated by the CDO for other purposes

A representative of the DDC

The CFC will determine the amount of compensation considering:

Current price of land

Value of standing crop, houses, walls, sheds, etc.

CFC 2 months 13 (2)




Required

Clause No.

in LAA

Loss incurred as a result of shifting residence or place of business

11 The CDO prepares list of persons entitled to compensation and issues notice of the same.

CDO ½ month 18 (1)

12 Any person who is not satisfied with the list may file a complaint to Ministry of Home (MoH) within 15 days.

CDO 1 month 18 (2)

13 PAPs may complain to MoH through the CDO within 7 days giving reason why his land should not acquired.

Land Owner ½ month 11 (1)

14 Before taking a decision on the complaint filed, the MoH shall consult the officer responsible for preliminary action and, if necessary, the CDO. MoH shall exercise the powers vested in a district court, such as summoning witnesses recording statements, or procuring document. The MoH will notify the CDO about the final decision of the complaint.

MoH 3 months 11 (2) 11 (3)

15 GoN takes possession of the concerned land and hands it over to concerned office for which it is acquired after:

Finalization of the amount of compensation by the CFC

Decision has been made on complaint, or

At any time after expiry of the time limit for filing complaints

CDO 2 months 12 (10

16 The CDO notifies the amount of compensation payable by the concerned ministry or department.

CDO ½ month 19

17 Authorization to the PM to make compensation payment to the land owners.

Ministry or Dept. ½ month 13 (1)

18 PM makes payment to land owners in presence of Revenue Officer, CDO and DDC officers' representatives.

PM 2 months 13 (2)

19 Landowners must receive compensation amount within a time limit of 3 months after which he will not be entitled to any compensation

Land Owner 3 months 37

20 The CDO takes possession of the land and hands it over to the concerned Ministry or Department and notifies HMG/N.

CDO 2 months 22

21 The PM obtains land ownership certificate and deposits copies with concerned ministry, department and project office(s).

PM 1 month

Source: Public Works Directives, PWD Management Unit, MoPPW, 2002

GoN Policies Supporting Vulnerable Communities: Nepal does not have a standalone policy on Indigenous Peoples, However in the Tenth Plan significant emphasis has been placed on



delivering basic services to the disadvantaged and indigenous people, Dalits4, women, disabled and other vulnerable groups including the Adibasi / Janajati indigenous people. One of the main thrusts of the Tenth Plan is the implementation of targeted programs for the uplift, employment and basic security of Dalits, indigenous people and disabled class. The policy provision also outlines that the government should pilot strong and separate package of program of basic security for vulnerable sections of society.

The Plan outlines four major strategies aiming at inclusion and greater representation of Dalits and neglected communities as follows.

By identifying oppressed, exploited, neglected communities the social discrimination against them will be abolished through the economic and social development of this class.

Through social and economic empowerment their knowledge, skills and intelligence will be mainstreamed in the development process, and their possible contribution in the national level will be identified and encouraged put into practice.

The traditional occupations of the downtrodden and oppressed community will be modernized and the goods produced by them will be made competitive. Necessary arrangements for marketing their products will also be undertaken.

Social dignity promoting programs will be emphasized for Dalits and other socially oppressed groups.

In line of the strategies devised in the Tenth Plan aiming at social and economic improvement of Dalits and neglected communities programs are to be designed for these groups is as presented below in Table 8.2.

Table 8.3.2: Support Programs for Dalits laid out in the Tenth Plan

Sector Program Details

Social Programs

Programs to discourage religious and social conservatism among non dalits; capacity building and leadership development of Dalits and women.

Educational Programs

Free education up to secondary level to the children of Dalits; easy access to higher education, mainly technical and vocational; appointment of dalit females in teaching position; types and amount of scholarship for dalits to be raised; development of Dalit student oriented curriculum; special education programs for Dalits.

Heath Programs

Awareness raising of Dalits on health food and sanitary condition; increased access to primary health; provision of safe drinking water; basic and primary health care services; programs on reducing infant mortality, child mortality and family planning among dalits; selection of Dalit women for female workers if possible.

Economic Programs

Priority in land distribution for home- and landless Dalits; preference in foreign employment opportunities (e.g. road construction); modernization of traditional skills and knowledge through training; provide access to loans to run commercial enterprises etc.

Child related Act, 2048 (1993) and Child Labour (abolition and regulation) Act, 2056 (2001) are the major acts related to child labour in Nepal. The Article 2 (Ka) of these acts refers

4 Dalits are traditionally the most poor and vulnerable communities elsewhere in the country leaving a very few

exceptions who are educated and economically better off. The customary practice while defining the poor is that all dalits are put in to this category implying the fact that poverty is prevalent widely among the dalits of Nepal. According to census survey (CBS, 2001), NPC has estimated a total of 3.1 million population as dalits who belong to more than 20 different ethnic groups. This figure accounts for 13.3 percent of the total population of Nepal. The hill dalits include mainly Damai, Kami Sarki Gaine, Pode Kusle, Kasai etc while the Terai Dalits constitute Teli, Dusadh, Chamar Musahar and others.



“Child” to the children below 16 years of age. The Child Labour (Abolition and Regulation) Act, 2056 (2001), Article 3, Clause 1 prohibited for labour employment any child below the age of 14 years. Clause 2 prohibit child below 16 years to work in risk-prone sectors such as public transportation and construction related works.

8.1.4 Review of Relevant International Policies and Conventions

(i) World Bank Safeguard Policies

The strategies of the World Bank sets three interrelated objectives, which are Improving the quality of life, Improving the prospects for and the quality of growth, and Protecting the quality of the regional and global environmental commons.

World Bank has their own Operational Policies (OPs) related with environmental and social safeguard in project implementation. Within the overall set of Operational Policies of the World Bank, ten key policies have been identified that are critical to ensuring that potentially adverse environmental and social consequences are identified, minimized and mitigated. These ten policies are known as the “Environmental and Social Safeguard Policies”. These Operational Policies are short and focused statements that follow the Bank‟s Article of Agreement, the general condition and policies approved by the Board.

Safeguard policies are mechanisms for integration of environmental and social issues into decision making. It supports participatory approaches and transparency. They provide a set of specialized tools to support development processes. These ten safeguard policies are as follows:

(a) Environmental Policies

OP 4.01: Environmental Assessment For ascertaining which extent and type of environmental assessment is required, the Bank undertakes environmental screening of each proposed project. They are:

Category A: if it is likely to have significant adverse environmental impacts that are sensitive, diverse or unprecedented, requiring EIA.

Category B: if potential adverse impacts are less adverse than those of Category A projects; these impacts are site specific; few in any of them are irreversible; and in most cases mitigation measures are readily designed. An IEE level study is needed here.

Category C: If it is likely to cause minimal or no adverse environmental impacts. Here, no additional environmental assessment is needed beyond environmental screening.

Category F: if it involves investment of Bank funds through a financial intermediary, in sub-projects that may result in adverse environmental impact. It requires appropriate environmental review for each sub-project.

OP 4.04: Natural Habitats

OPN 11.03:Cultural Property

(b) Rural Development Policies: OP 4.36: Forestry; OP 4.09: Pest Management; OP 4.39: Safety of Dams

(c) Social Safeguard Policies: OP 4.12: Involuntary Resettlement; OD 4.20: Policy on Indigenous People

(d) Legal Policies: OP 7.60:Policy on Disputed Areas; OP 7.50: Policy on International Waterways

Another document of World Bank reviewed included Roads and the Environment: A Hand Book, World Bank, 1994. The Hand Book has tried to integrate environmental thinking into



road planning and management. The handbook provides a description of practical methods which are useful in designing and executing effective environmental assessments in various aspects of road projects, from planning to construction to maintenance. It also provides a detailed, in-depth discussion of each of the major factors involved in environmental assessment, including impact mitigation of road projects. It provides description of possible impacts, the nature and scale of the impacts, and some practical information on common mitigation options.

(ii) Other International Legal Instruments

Nepal is signatory to many international conventions, which deal with the protection of environment. Some of them related with the proposed project are:

(a) Convention on Biological Diversity, 1992

The Convention on Biological Diversity was signed by Nepal at Rio de Janeiro on June 12, 1992. The convention and particularly Article 14 provides a broad framework on the need for carrying out EIA to minimize adverse impacts of the projects and programs on biodiversity. This study complies with the provision(s) of the Convention on Biological Diversity, particularly with its Article 14, which is related with carrying out EIA.

(b) Plant Protection Agreement for the South East Asia and the Pacific (as amended), 1956,

It provides the framework for the Contracting Governments, desiring to prevent, through concerted action, the introduction of plants diseases and pests into and spread within the South East Asia and Pacific Region. It is to be noted that the Project will not be directly involved introduction of plants diseases and pest from other countries or to other countries. However, the Project will make every effort to respect the provisions of such environment-related instruments and least damage the natural resources and the environment.

(c) Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, (CITES), 1973

CITES is an international agreement between governments. Its aim is to ensure that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival. It was entered into force in Nepal in 16/9/1975. Various plants and animal species that need various level of international attention and protection are listed in CITES Appendix as presented hereunder. APPENDIX I: Appendix I list species that are the most endangered and are threatened with extinction. CITES prohibits international trade of these species except for scientific research. In these exceptional cases, trade may take place provided it is authorized by the granting of both an import permit and an export permit. APPENDIX II: Appendix II lists species that are not necessarily now threatened to extinction but that may become so, unless trade is closely controlled. International trades of such specimens require authorization of granting of an export permit. APPENDIX III: Species included at the request of a Party that already regulates trade of the species and that needs the cooperation of other countries to prevent unsustainable or illegal exploitation. Although CITES is legally binding on the Parties – in other words they have to implement the Convention – it does not take the place of national laws. Rather it provides a framework to



be respected by each Party, which has to adopt its own domestic legislation to ensure that CITES is implemented at the national level. The country as a whole is obliged to implement the Convention's provisions and a single Project may not be responsible for its compliance. Furthermore, the Project will not be involved in the international trade of wild fauna and flora. However, the Project will make every effort to respect the provisions of such environment-related instruments and least damage the natural resources and the environment.



9 Grievance Redress Mechanism

Public dissent, especially amongst local stakeholders is obvious and common to surface up on the road stretch where its activity is undertaken, and continued without suggested environmental safeguards being correctly respected. These non-compliant safeguards at times most notably may include: rock extractions at contractors discretion without formal agreement with the land owner, locating and establishing cross / outfall drainage over the private land without its owner‟s consent, draining out hazardous spills over the private land, littering arable land with the impoverished materials (e.g. spoil), allowing labor force including gang leader or machine operator‟s undertake their works at their without knowledge of his wrong doing etc. Local stakeholders, who are directly affected by their fault works as cited above, and wish to lodge their grievances requiring its corrections, may need to be fully aware of „about how‟ and „where they can lodge their grievances‟. Inability to understand and conceive their rights by the road builders on time, and absence of „Grievance Re-dressal Body‟ at work site of its fault works may later lead to conflict, which at worst situation may lead to a „need for stop of road works‟. For local stakeholders‟ convenience, this mechanism needs to be affected by establishing mandatory „grievance register book‟ at the Chief District Officer‟s Office, Project Manager‟s Office, road builders‟ office – supervising consultants and contractor etc. The register book requires containing i) date of grievance registered ii) name / address of grievance lodger (stakeholder) iii) nature of grievance being lodged and iv) location / site of fault works requiring corrections to his satisfactions. Appropriate action may need to be affected as and if the case of registered grievance is genuine by the road builders on priority basis, and monitored if grievance is appropriately entertained



10 Conclusions and Recommendations

The upgrading works for the Sitalpati – Musikot road is expected to result in a substantial set of beneficial impacts, serving a much remote and disadvantaged region in Western Nepal. The Project foresees a number of measures and activities to enhance the expected benefits associated with the rehabilitated road. Above all, local communities and especially disadvantaged groups (including the poor and women) are targeted for livelihood development and training programs that will enable them to embark on a more prosperous future with the aid of this Project.

On the other hand, the proposed Project will invariably result in a number of adverse impacts. It is concluded that 20 houses with 10 temporary sheds will be required to be acquired and about 15 trees need to be cleared. However, 23.29 ha. of cultivable land has been observed to fall within corridor of impact, and needs to be acquired. Accordingly, acquisition, compensation and resettlement issues are not at stake with this Project.

Most of the identified environmental adverse impacts are locally confined, and limited mainly to the period of construction. These impacts are typically associated with the nature of construction works. It is concluded that with the set of proposed mitigation measures much but not most of the identified impacts can be minimised or even set off. Once the stringent measures outlined in the Environmental and Social Management and Action Plan are in place and observed by the Contractors and all supervision and monitoring mechanisms are carried out, there is no risk for residual impacts that may affect the bio-physical, social and cultural environs. With the exception of the transformation of land into the proposed width for road formation (4.5 m) and construction width (5.5m) there is no irreversible adverse impact assumed.

However, certain induced/cumulative impacts such as undesired ribbon settlement development, encroachment or accelerated/illegal logging cannot be tackled by mitigation measures that could be planned under such a road development programme. Similarly, there will remain serious problems in the sector of spreading of sexually transmitted diseases, and people trafficking. To address these issues which are unfortunately often associated with improved road access, it needs concerted actions of various governmental and non-governmental agencies, and the communities themselves. The key to possible solution lies in good governance, corruption combat and general reduction of poverty. This road aims to contribute to this goal.

Given the above conclusion, this IEE Report recommends to implement the Proposal under the condition that the safeguard measures described in the Environmental Management Action Plan (EMAP) are equally implemented and followed and monitored accordingly.



1 Alignment passing through rocky area

2 Road alignment needs protection from toe cutting by the River at some locations.

3 Many locations need slope stabilization with the bio-engineering technology.

4 The irrigation system at hillside may require re-location.

5 Some sections might be left as narrow sections due to hard rock and steep slopes

both at hill and valley sides.

6 Few road sections are at box cutting and need widening to provide side drainage at

both sides.



7 At few locations the road width is made narrow due to hard rock at hillside and

landslide at valley side.

8 Horizontal alignment to meet the proposed causeway at river needs improvement.

9 Settlement at Tharmare Bazar.

10 Many pipe culverts need reconstruction of catchpit and head walls.

11 Settlement at Kharibot Bazar

12 Many head walls need repair.

Government of Nepal Ministry of Physical Planning and ...documents.worldbank.org/curated/en/... ·...

Documents

Transcript of Government of Nepal Ministry of Physical Planning and ...documents.worldbank.org/curated/en/... ·...